Support Types

Supporting Children and Families

Community Disability Services agencies support children from birth to age 18, and their families. A wide variety of family-centered programs and services are available to meet the individual needs of families and children.

Early Intervention

Home-based programming, playgroups, support networks and consultation to families, available to children from birth to 3.5 years of age. Areas of support can include behaviour, attention, movement, language development and feeding.

Respite or Family Support

Families with children up to 18 years of age can access respite support. Options may include in and out-of-home respite, host families, group programs for children and teens, aftercare programs, specialized summer programs, parent support groups and aids to support children with community activities or recreational programs.

Family Networks and Training Services

Some organizations are able to offer networking or support groups for parents and family members, as well as services such as workshops, consultations, service planning and referrals to community services.

Supporting Adults 

Community Disability Service agencies support adults aged 18 and older through a wide range of service options based on individual choice.

Community Supports/Outreach Services/Supported Independent Living

Support workers provide flexible support to adults living in arrangements of their choice. The type and amount of support provided can range from a few hours a week to more intensive support. Support may be provided on an as-needed basis or on a regular, on-going basis.

Community Access and Recreational Programs

Individuals are assisted to participate in community activities and access recreational opportunities. This may occur on a one-to-one basis or within the context of a group program. The level of support and type of activity is determined by the individual’s gifts, interests and ability.

Employment Support

Community agencies support individuals with disabilities to find and maintain meaningful roles in community and places where their own unique abilities can make a contribution. This can include competitive or supported employment opportunities or volunteer opportunities.

Supported Living/24-Hour Support

Adults living on their own or with roommates are supported with the normal routines and tasks of day-to-day living. Support is based on the interests and abilities of the individuals. Support workers assist individuals to meet day-to-day challenges, share in their successes and help create and maintain connections with friends, family and community.

Supportive Roommates

Some agencies are able to assist individuals to find supportive roommate situations in their community. A supportive roommate shares a home with an individual who is able to live independently, but who may need nominal support or guidance with some day-to-day tasks or decisions.

Adult Respite Services

Adults living with their families, or possibly in other supported arrangements, may be able to access respite support. Options may include in or out-of-home respite or a placement with a host family. Some community agencies operate respite homes for short-term stays.

Supporting Adults with Acquired Brain Injury

Some Community Disability Services agencies support individuals who are survivors of acquired brain injury. Support is flexible and based on the areas identified by the individual. Activities may include support to connect and contribute to community, establish personal support networks, relearn and further develop skills and strategies for memory, concentration, problem solving and planning, assistance with managing money and home, or assistance with preparation to re-enter the workforce, volunteerism or an educational program.