The Commission defines family status as the status of being in a parent-child relationship. Human-rights issues can arise where work, housing, services or other covered practices disadvantage a person because of that status.
Sources checked September 29, 2026.
Parent-child relationship
Family status under the Commission's current guidance is specifically connected to the parent-child relationship. It is not simply a broad label for every family relationship.
Work and caregiving
Work schedules, attendance requirements and caregiving conflicts can create fact-specific accommodation questions. The legal analysis depends on the protected need, workplace requirements and accommodation process.
Housing
Rules excluding children or treating families with children differently can raise housing-discrimination concerns under the Act.
Evidence and accommodation
Policies, requests, available alternatives, communications and the impact on the parent-child relationship can matter. The duty to accommodate remains subject to the applicable legal test and undue hardship.
Official sources
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — Inquiry Form and intake criteria
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — access to rental accommodations
- Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission — duty to accommodate
- Nova Scotia Legislature — Human Rights Act