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.

The Client Support Team (CST) was created in response to concerns raised by individuals and families about the level of services provided by Community Living BC (CLBC). The team has been successful in problem-solving at the local level first - finding timely and local solutions and connecting people with the appropriate supports and services in their communities.

The Integrated Services Support Team (ISST), announced today, will replace the CST. This new team gives individuals with developmental disabilities and their families a dedicated place to turn to for assistance when they have concerns about services provided by CLBC and other ministries and agencies.

The creation of the ISST addresses recommendation six in the Improving Services to People with Development Disabilities plan released in January 2012, and brings the government of B.C. one step closer to improving supports for people with developmental disabilities.

The new team brings together staff from the ministries of Social Development, Children and Family Development, Health and, when required, Education and Advanced Education. Together with CLBC staff, they will review all of the services that an individual receives to ensure they are receiving the appropriate level of services.

For continuity, any cases currently with the CST will be resolved through the current contacts.

For more information about the ISST, please visit: www.sd.gov.bc.ca/pwd/isst.html

Anyone who would like to have a representative of the ISST contact them can email isst@gov.bc.ca or call toll-free at 1 855 356-1635.

Contact:

David Haslam
Communications Manager
Ministry of Social Development
250 356-1670