Facility to Support People with Disabilities

Halifax Regional Municipality residents with disabilities who have complex needs will receive better care from a new residential support program.

The program will be located in the former Cobequid Multi-Service Centre in Lower Sackville. The building will be renovated to accommodate about 25 residents who require a high-level of support. The program will benefit 11 people who were relocated to Sunrise Manor in Halifax when the Halifax County Regional Rehabilitation Centre closed.

"This program will provide a highly specialized service for people with complex needs," said Community Services Minister Judy Streatch. "I am confident that this new resource will not only provide improvements to their level of care, but also provide a positive impact on their daily lives."

The Department of Community Services, together with the Department of Health, developed the program to provide support and services to high-needs clients.

A review of services was initiated in 2002-03 to identify ways to improve supports and services for people with intellectual, long-term mental and/or physical disabilities. Three new and expanded programs, Direct Family Support, Alternative Family Support and Independent Living Support, have already been implemented.

This new support program will help clients who require assistance with all aspects of daily living, including getting dressed, bathing, and eating, and offer a range of services that include long- and short-term placement and respite.

Staff will work closely with clients and their families to determine eligibility.

Renovation of the building is estimated to cost $3 million. Annual operating costs are expected to be about $3 million, with the Department of Health contributing clinical services.

It is expected that the program will be up and running in early 2008.