Autism Spectrum Disorder Respite Supports

In August 2007 the Ministry of Children & Youth Services (MCYS) announced additional respite supports for families/guardians caring for children/youth with a diagnosis within the Autism Spectrum.

RESPITE is defined as:  "a flexible, periodic, short-term break from care-giving for the purpose of rest and renewal for the family" (As defined in the South West Region document -- An Ideal Model for Children & Youth - Respite Services and Supports, June 2007)

What is ASD Respite Support?

ASD respite support is a flexible, self-directed funding support.  This funding will provide family members or guardians, temporary relief from the physical and emotional demands involved with caring for children with ASD.

ASD Respite Supports will allow the child/youth to engage in meaningful and purposeful activities that promote the continuity of skills and/or help develop new skills and relationships.  The respite supports can occur in a variety of ways.

Families may:

• Engage in the services of a respite support person who will take over the care-giving responsibilities.
• Choose to use a family based or host families who provide care to the child or youth with ASD in their own homes.
• Consider using a centre based respite which is provided in a residence with trained, paid staff.

Who is eligible to receive this service?

• Families and or guardians caring for children/youth who have a documented diagnosis within the Autism Spectrum  including: Autistic Disorder (Autism),  Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), Asperger's Disorder.
• Children/youth aged 0-17 (up to the child's 18th birthday).

How will families access it?

Community Living Wallaceburg will receive referrals from a number of community partners - health or social service professionals, KIDS Team, Chatham Kent Children's Services or school based personnel.

• Eligibility will be determined by Community Living Wallaceburg as per  MCYS guidelines.
• Based on the needs of the family and their preferences, a respite plan will be developed.

Upon approval, and based on available resources, a subsidy amount is determined.  The funding is provided for the fiscal year, from April 1st to March 31st.

How does it work?

Payment for the respite supports will be made by Community Living Wallaceburg.  Arrangements for payment will be dependent upon the respite plan.

Families are able to pool their respite allocation with other funding they may receive (SSAH, ACSD).  CLW can assist families when requested to co-ordinate this effort.