Service BC is expanding its services by partnering with the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation (SDSI) office in Smithers, effective today, so residents can make one stop for a variety of government services.

This move will help cut red tape, extend office hours for clients and give the community a one-stop-shop for a wide range of government services, now including income assistance and disability assistance services, in addition to driver’s licensing, fish and wildlife licensing and Medical Services Plan (MSP), among many others.

In the newly integrated location, Service BC will expand SDSI in-person service hours to 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, providing continuous service throughout the day and adding two additional hours. Previously, SDSI services were available in person from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Service BC delivers hundreds of government services and programs to B.C. residents, businesses and visitors in person, online and over the phone. The Smithers expansion marks the 36th Service BC location offering SDSI services throughout British Columbia.

Quotes:

Amrik Virk, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services –

“Providing British Columbians with easy, one-stop access to information and integrated government-wide services is a priority for our government. This expansion in Smithers marks our commitment to continuously improve Service BC in order to best suit British Columbians’ busy lifestyles.”

Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation –

“We’re making it easier for clients to access services in person by partnering with Service BC offices throughout the province. The opening of the Smithers office marks our 36th co-location, providing British Columbians with a variety of services for longer hours, all in a single stop.”

Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction and Minister Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch –

“This Service BC and SDSI office integration reduces red tape by making it easier and faster for Smithers residents to access government services. In the last year, we’ve taken action on more than 200 ideas to cut red tape, improving service and program accessibility for thousands of British Columbians provincewide.”

Quick Facts:

• The Service BC centre in Smithers is located at 1020 Murray St.
• There are currently 62 Service BC centres with 36 offering SDSI services throughout the province.
• There are currently 47 stand-alone SDSI offices in British Columbia.

Learn More:

Service BC: http://www.servicebc.gov.bc.ca

Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/ministries/social-development-and-social-innovation

Smithers Service BC centre: 250 847-7207