The Indigenous Community has some very high barriers to accessing
services and support for children with Developmental Delays. These can
include:
- Remote living
- Lack of access to specialized health care
- Cultural barriers
- Racism
- Inter-generational trauma
- Specialized services are concentrated in urban areas
I will outline some options available to Indigenous persons for obtaining funds and services for children with developmental delays. But, we really need real-world experiences. Please comment below this article with your thoughts.
The British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)
has more resources than I can mention in this article. I do understand
the reluctance of some people to contact a government run or funded
society. In this case, BCANDS is an Indigenous run and governed society. They offer assistance with PWD benefits, the Disability Tax Credit, and RDSP awareness.
Jordans Principle is not a program. It is a legal obligation. It ensures that services available to all other children are also available to First Nations. The history behind Jordan’s Principle is complex. The basic principle is that First Nations children must have an equal chance to thrive as other children in Canada. This is examined by looking at Substantive Equality which means giving extra help when it is needed.
The First Nations people may understandably not trust the government to access services and funding. I recommend The Assembly of First Nations – Guide to Jordan’s Principle. It will explain the process and has a list of the local community coordinators.
For children with autism or suspected autism, services can include
Psycho-educational assessments, tutoring services, assistive
technologies, and respite. Specialized ABA therapies may not exist in First Nations communities but with funding from Jordan’s Principle, services can be established. BIs can get initial training from The Autism Support Network Behaviour Interventionist Basic Training Workshop. The tools exist for determined parents to access funding and set up an ABA program in a culturally appropriate setting.
Aboriginal Supported Child Care is a program designed to help children who need extra support. It ensures their inclusion in childcare, preschool, and community care settings. This program ensures that culturally appropriate support is offered to First Nations families.
The Miyoopimaatishihk (Well being) program is for Metis families with children up to age 8 .
No doubt important services were overlooked in this post. Please share in the comments if you know of more resources that Indigenous, Metis and Inuit communities can use.
Autism Funding in BC 