An Overview of Saskatchewan’s Action Plan
for
Citizens with Cognitive Disabilities

In September of 2005, the Saskatchewan Government released information concerning a new initiative committed to providing better support for children and youth with cognitive disabilities, such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Families and individuals affected by FASD may be eligible for services offered through this project. A sum of 1.65 million dollars has been budgeted to build upon ongoing activities and develop new initiatives for persons with cognitive disabilities. The vision of the Action Plan for Citizens with Cognitive Disabilities is a community that supports persons with cognitive disabilities so that each individual is able to participate and contribute as a full citizen in the economic and social life in Saskatchewan. The following goals will help to reach this vision:

-Develop and increase family, community, and professional ability to support persons with cognitive disabilities.
-Assist individuals with cognitive disabilities to become independent and self sufficient to the best of their abilities.
-Prevent FASD through reduction and elimination of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

Children and youth with cognitive disabilities have complex behavioral and developmental challenges. They will require, and have a right to, lifelong supports. The resources now available are not meeting the needs of children, youth, and families affected by FASD. Many children and youth with cognitive disabilities do not experience success in schools and communities. Families, teachers, and professionals often do not have the necessary resources to promote safety and health for their children and themselves. This lack of support, time, energy, and money for additional resources results in many children and youth experiencing secondary disabilities such as addictions, mental health issues, difficulty with relationships, and homelessness.

The Action Plan is a step in the right direction for persons with FASD and their families. Consultants have been hired in several regions of the province. The consultants will be available to help families, individuals, and organizations to determine how to best support persons with cognitive disabilities. The plan will build on existing services and has indicated a desire to partner with the Saskatchewan Fetal Alcohol Support Network, the regional FASD committees, as well as the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute. In addition, a flexible funding pool is available so individuals and families with unmet needs can access funds to improve their quality of life. The services will be based on individual needs and may include home support staff, respite care, or assistance with independent living.

The Network would like to help community members learn more about this strategy.
For information about the Action Plan for Citizens with Cognitive Disabilities please contact our organization.

Additional Information:

Cognitive Disability Strategy Fact Sheet

Update - April 2007 - Cognitive Disability Strategy Brochure