(Image Credit: CFJC News)

By Sydney Chisholm

Autism Funding

Government’s autism funding model reversal still leaves out some neurodiverse children: Kamloops advocate

Dec 9, 2022 | 5:15 PM

KAMLOOPS — Two weeks ago, the NDP government reversed course on a decision that would have helped Bonnie McBride and her family, instead, they are still advocating for proper funding.

McBride has two children already diagnosed with autism, who qualify for funding under the current model, but two others with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) who still need accommodation.

Premier David Eby announced he would maintain individualized funding for children with an autism diagnosis. Instead of moving to a hub format previously approved by the government, which would benefit children with all neurological disorders.

“We are coming in our third year of waiting for an assessment for one of our children to even get diagnosed so that he can have services,” McBride told CFJC News. “It means that our family won’t be able to access services like we thought we were going to.”

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MLA Todd Stone was in favour of the reversed decision but said more needs to be done to help other children who don’t currently qualify.

“There should be an expansion in funding so that every child out there – every child that has a neurodiverse challenge (gets helped). FASD children, for example,” Stone said. “Every child should have the support attached to them, so they can realize their best potential.”

While the B.C. Liberal opposition and many families who have children with autism were glad to see the previous decision reversed, McBride says it’s a step in the wrong direction for kids with FASD.

Stone said parents of kids not included in the current funding model should make their concerns known to Victoria.

“To those parents, pick up the phone and call Premier David Eby’s office, Call Minister Mitzi Dean’s office and say that, ‘That’s unacceptable,’” Stone said.

McBride says she won’t stop advocating for her children and other families like hers.

CFJC News reached out to the Ministry of Children and Family Development multiple times for comment but did not hear back.