Process to Improve Services for Nova Scotians with Disabilities
COMMUNITY SERVICES--Process to Improve Services for Nova Scotians with Disabilities
Nova Scotians are being asked to give their thoughts on services for people with disabilities who need support to live in the community, Community Services Minister Peter Christie announced today, Nov. 19.
"We recognize there is a need to review and improve the way services are provided for people with disabilities in our communities," said Mr. Christie. "We are working together with clients, service providers and other departments to develop an accessible, responsive and sustainable system that meets the unique needs of our clients."
The review will look at all aspects of the current program including access to services, assessment, licensing, information technology, resources and legislation.
A community committee is also being established to provide input into the review. Advocacy, consumer and service-provider groups are being asked to submit representatives to sit on the committee.
The goal of the review is to establish a standard level of accessible, flexible services across the province. The province has already taken steps in this direction by introducing training standards for direct care staff and closing larger institutions in favour of smaller, community-based homes.
"This is the next logical step in the development of these services," said project team member Charlene Thomas, who has been seconded from Riverview Home Corporation Adult Residential Centre to work on the project. "I'm looking forward to hearing from those directly involved in the system as we work together to create the best program possible for Nova Scotia."
The current Community Supports for Adults program provides a wide range of services for adults with disabilities, including homes for special care, small option homes, adult residential centres, supervised apartments and adult service centres.
All Nova Scotians will be encouraged to participate in the process. Information on the process will soon be available on the Department of Community Services Web site. Community feedback will also be sought on a discussion paper that will be developed during the review.