Inspire Kids FASD Family Support Society pleased with announcement of disability services overhaul

Every child in BC should be supported to the full extent they need to lead a meaningful and full life. This support needs to be respectful, accessible and individualized for each child and each family in British Columbia.

The announcement of a new, comprehensive system to support child well being is a significant step forward for all families in BC. Further, the financial commitments to youth services in the 2026 budget and mandate letter reaffirm the Province’s commitment to expanding direct support for families who have long been denied youth services that would help their children thrive.

Historically, opportunities for funding, services, and programming have been provided in siloed and inconsistent ways across Ministries, communities, and the lifespan. Children under 6 years of age, children with specific diagnoses, Indigenous children, and children in care were eligible for different levels and types of support. Additionally, a separate system for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder created further disparities in opportunities for families to thrive.

We have been honoured to be included in the consultation and work that has occurred to make this positive change come to fruition. We look forward to supporting the teams around the Province to roll out information, resources, and tools to families in the FASD community as they navigate accessing supports for the first time.

The announcement of a new, inclusive era in investing in families and children brings hope to many families in British Columbia. While some families currently accessing services have expressed concern, we are committed to supporting the transition by engaging with stakeholders and families to ensure individual family and youth needs are met and accounted for.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in BC, affecting approximately 4% of the population. This means that nearly 40,000 children in our province could be struggling to find their way in school, community, and workplaces.

This commitment to the inclusion of FASD as a recognized disability for child and family support services is the most significant investment ever undertaken by the Province, recognizing the importance of building success for individuals through strength-based inclusion in their community. When fully implemented, this groundbreaking program will make British Columbia the leader in FASD programming in Canada.