A number of engagement and consultation activities are underway as government continues to deliver on the 12-point plan to improve services to people with developmental disabilities, Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced today.

The B.C. government has fast-tracked increases to the school startup supplement so income and disability assistance clients - and now hardship assistance clients - with children in school can receive the extra money in time for the start of the school year.

One British Columbian has been named and five have been reappointed to the board of directors for Community Living BC (CLBC), to oversee the organization and its operations within the policy, mandate and budget set by the B.C. government.

After a re-examination of current resources and demand, Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced that government is restoring a number of medically necessary medical equipment and supplies for clients on income and disability assistance.

Since the Client Support Team began accepting requests in October 2011, 289 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have taken advantage of the team's services. To date, 222 of the referrals to the team - 77 per cent - have now been resolved. Overall, there are 161 individuals now receiving additional services.

Since the Client Support Team began accepting requests in October 2011, 266 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have taken advantage of the team's services.

The Province is making progress in its commitment to improve supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families, announced Minister of Social Development Stephanie Cadieux.

The Province has completed the selection process for two external advisory panels that will monitor the success of the new Employment Program of B.C., and has also identified the organization that will create a Centre for Employment Excellence.