Developmentally disabled at risk

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Ontario’s Ombudsman released his report today saying the province fails to help people with developmental disabilities. He also called for an overhaul of the care system. The investigation began four years ago, after a surge in complaints about gaps in care for those with special needs. Now the report reveals the system failed thousands of disabled adults and their families.

The report is based on more than 1300 complaints and 200 interviews, including tragic stories of neglect and abuse. The Dundas Learning Centre was among the interviewed. The centre says there’s a dire need for help from the province.
“If you listen to parents you’ll hear many times that heartfelt plea; I need somewhere for my child to go to.”

The ministry says, 1400 adults with special needs will receive housing by 2018 that’s just a sliver of the 9 000 who are currently without permanent residency. The centre says a majority of those helped will be adults in crisis, who may have lost a parent or both parents.

The Ombudsman hammered the government for it’s ‘hands off stance”, and recommends it take more leadership. The ministry says they accept all 60 recommendations, and they will be reporting back to the Ombudsman with the progress in 6 months.