Disability Income Support Coalition (DISC)

DISC is a cross-disability coalition of 39 disability advocacy organizations, individuals with disabilities and their families. DISC is working towards a separate, adequate income system for people with disabilities.

What we have achieved so far:

In October 2008 the Government of Saskatchewan announced that they would create a separate, dignified program for people with disabilities: SAID (Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability).
In October 2009 the Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) program was launched with an initial enrollment of approximately 2800 individuals.
In December 2010 the earnings exemption for SAID was increased. A $100,000 inheritance/life insurance exemption was also implemented.
In early 2011 funding to develop the SAID assessment tool as well as a $50/month increase to SAID clients in residential care settings beginning in January 2012 was announced. The first SAID office was opened in Saskatoon.
In June 2012, SAID was expanded to include anyone with a significant and enduring disability, and benefit rates increased by a minimum of $200/month over the income previously received from social assistance.
June 2013/2014/2015 - the Government honoured promises made in the 2011 election campaign by increasing SAID benefits for people living independently by $50/month in each of the 3 years for a total of of $150. Benefits for people living in residential care increased by $20/month in each of the 3 years for a total of $60.
June 2015 - over 15,000 people are currently enrolled on SAID; applications are still coming in.

Additional information:

SAID

DISC

DISC members have said that if the SACL hadn’t provided the leadership and the funding to support DISC we would never have achieved a separate income program or, at a minimum, we wouldn’t have made the progress we have to-date.

Self-Directed Funding

Self-Directed Funding (SDF) is a way some governments provide financial support to people with intellectual disabilities. Under the Self-Directed Funding model, a person centred plan is developed for the individual, reflecting the individual’s needs and goals.

A budget is built based on the plan, and the funding is attached to the individual. Funding can also be sent to a parent/support person, or team acting on the person’s behalf. The person with a disability can, if they wish, receive money directly from the government to purchase the supports and services that they choose.

Our Objectives for SDF

To continue to work with the government and other stakeholders in the development of SDF as an alternate support option.
To conduct research that will address specific questions relating to SDF practices and policies.
To build public awareness of SDF.