3. Evaluate Needs

3. 'Evaluate Needs Group'

Find the best way to evaluate the needs of individuals.

As support need replaces IQ as the basis of access to resources, the community must advocate for more resources to go around. The Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) is an internationally-used tool designed to help understand the range of supports people would need to carry out common life activities successfully in the community. People have a lot of questions about SIS and how it is used. For example,

·         Are mental health needs included? Yes, in SIS and in supplemental (extra) questions.

·         What is the individual’s role? The person answers SIS questions along with supporters.

·         At what point does the plan connect to the funding? SIS helps give a general range of funding and the plan indicates the funding required for support Once the plan is developed, the service providers come together to figure out how to carry out the plan.

·         What if needs change? The SIS may need to be redone.

·         What if you don’t agree with the picture SIS gives of the person’s support needs? SIS can be reviewed with the Client Service Coordinator. Or you can appeal at any point.

Staff, individuals and families need better information and a chance to ask questions and get clear answers.

Policy is coming out that SIS is not the only means of assessing needs, but just part of the assessment of people’s needs. The result of the process with the trained Client Service Coordinator interviewer and the person’s network is called “My Support Plan.” PDD staff will be part of the planning process. The service planning process may change. PDD is working on a template as a guide. The process will be the same across the province.

Action Plan

1.    Get PDD to hold information sessions on SIS for staff, families and individuals.

2.    Advocate for an ombudsman for people with disabilities to ensure their voice is heard.