Empowering Change: A New Frontier in Disability Support Policy
April 23, 2024
In a significant stride towards a “strength-based approach to care,” the latest policy brief, titled “Improving Access to Disability Supports,” provides the necessary recommendations for families of children with disabilities to navigate the complex landscape of disability services in Canada. Drafted by Dr. Samantha Noyek, a KBHN trainee and recipient of the KBHN Promising Researcher Award, with the support of Dr. Jennifer Zwicker and Brittany Finlay from the Disability Policy Research Program (DiPo), and Dr. Peter Rosenbaum from the F-Words program, this brief sets out to reshape the federal and provincial systems’ approach to supporting children with disabilities.
Present Challenges
For too long, families have grappled with the arduous task of maneuvering through eligibility criteria for disability programs, often having to amplify impairment severity to access necessary services. These can be emotionally and financially taxing, compounded by the intricate web of clinical requirements and additional fees.
A Paradigm Shift
The brief advocates for a fundamental shift in perspective, urging policymakers to move away from the traditional medical model towards a biopsychosocial approach. At the heart of this transformation lies the adoption of the F-Words for childhood development—Functioning, Family, Fitness, Fun, Friends, and Future—as guiding principles. By embracing these pillars, policymakers can foster a strength-based approach that celebrates the inherent capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
Recommendations for Change
The brief outlines five transformative recommendations for Canadian governments, each designed to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible support system:
- Adopt criteria that meet functional needs
- Consistently integrate ‘Nothing about us without us’ into policymaking
- Develop guidelines for development of disability-related programs and policies
- Adapt language of existing policies and programs based on the developed guidelines
- Consider implementing the model of Ontario’s SmartStart Hubs across provinces and territories to ensure eligibility criteria reflect a functional approach
Embracing Transformation
At its core, this policy brief represents more than just a set of recommendations—it embodies a vision for a future where individuals with disabilities are not only supported but identified for their unique strengths and contributions. By embracing a strength-based policy framework, there is an opportunity to redefine societal perceptions of disability and create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
