"BC Ministry for Children Abandons Boy with Autism"
"BC Ministry for Children Abandons Boy with Autism"
BC Government Memo to all Children's Ministry Regions
Date: August 7th, 1998 (faxed to Regional Operating Officers of Children's Ministry on Aug. 26th, 1998)
B.C. Ministry for
Children and Families
In order that decisions regarding Ministry for Children and Families services and supports are equitable and fair, and that current funding for treatments are based on best practices, we are adopting the following positions:
1. No further individualized funding for families to pay for any treatment options for children and youth with autism (such as Lovaas, Giant Steps) unless already authorized through an existing contractual agreement, pending the joint Ministry for "Children and Families/ Ministry of Education action plan regarding consistent directions for children and youth with autism (due late fall 1998).
2. We are aware that some families have received individualized funding to assist with payments towards treatment options. Any future renewals or re-negotiations for existing contractual agreements must comply with current policy in the program/service area. Any exceptions must be approved by Diane Johnston, Assistant Deputy Minister, Child, Youth and Family Support[ Division.
3. We do provide a range of other supports for families and children/youth with special needs including children wit autism, and will continue to do this at the regional level based on each child/family situation;, their support needs and available resources.
Diane Johnston
Assistant Deputy Minister
Child, Youth and Family Support
Vaughan Dowie
Assistant Deputy Minister
Regional Operations and Performance Management
Acrobat version of MCF Memo