B.C. Overhauls Child Disability Funding System

British Columbia has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its funding system for children and youth with disabilities, including those with autism. The province is dedicating $475 million in new funding over three years, alongside redirecting $298 million previously allocated for autism services. This initiative aims to provide direct financial support and community-based services to thousands more young individuals across B.C. The changes were prompted by extensive feedback from parents following a previous model revision in 2021. The new system introduces a complex-needs disability benefit, ranging from $6,500 to $17,000 annually, determined by functional impact rather than diagnosis alone. An estimated 33,000 children in lower- and middle-income households will also be eligible for an income-tested supplement of up to $6,000 per year. These changes are expected to increase the total number of children supported to approximately 48,000, up from the current 30,000.

While the province assures that no child will lose access to supports, some families may see changes in their funding amounts or delivery methods. Up to 5,000 children with lower needs may be directed towards expanded community-based services, supported by an $80 million investment in these programs. These services, including behavioral and mental health supports, are projected to increase by 40 percent over the next three years. The autism funding program will remain in place until next year, with the new disability benefit rolling out in phases starting April 1. The first supplement payments are scheduled for July 2027. This initiative seeks to ease the administrative burden on families, allowing them to focus more on nurturing their children.