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By rdnewsNOW staff

Family Support for Children with Disabilities

Province aiming to make it easier to access disability supports

Jul 27, 2023 | 11:12 AM

Alberta’s government has launched a new online platform that it says aims to simplify the process for families applying for supports and services for their child with a disability.

Government officials say the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) provides valuable supports to children with disabilities and their families who rely on the program. According to the government, this new online application will make it easier for Albertans to access services for their children.

“Alberta’s government is committed to reducing barriers to accessing important services. The new online application for Family Support for Children with Disabilities services will save time for Alberta families and allow caseworkers more time to focus on supporting families and children in accessing the supports and services they need,” says Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services.

Officials say the new system will speed up access to services and reduce wait times for Albertans applying for the FSCD program. With this platform, applicants can check their eligibility for the program, submit supporting documents, save their application and return to it later to make any changes.

To ensure the system is user-friendly, the government says it was developed with input from members of the FSCD Provincial Parent Advisory Committee and representatives from Inclusion Alberta, Autism Alberta, and Autism Calgary. Members were able to test the application and provide feedback to the government.

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“We are very pleased that steps are being taken to increase efficiency and reduce waiting lists for FSCD supports,” adds Kim Ward, executive director, Society for Autism Support and Services. “It is critical that autistic children and families have timely access to the services they require to thrive and experience success. We are thankful that the minister has been receptive to the concerns of the community and is actively working towards addressing them.”

“Ensuring families have timely access to appropriate supports and services under the FSCD program will improve outcomes for children with disabilities and support the well-being of the family. Our community is encouraged that steps are being taken to address wait lists so that families receive the help they need sooner and can begin building hope for their future,” notes Lyndon Parakin, vice-president, Autism Society Alberta.

The new application portal is accessible on multiple devices, such as personal computers, mobile phones or tablets. Albertans can also access computers at Alberta Supports Centres located throughout the province or through community agencies and public libraries.

Alberta government quick facts

• There has been a 96 per cent increase in the number of FSCD applications received since 2020-21.
  • The increasing number of applications has resulted in families waiting longer to access services.
• Currently, 33 per cent of applications are submitted without the required information and supporting documents.