The public health care system is maxed out ~ we need to think of other solutions so that people receive adequate and timely care, and that access to treatment is provided.
2014-03-03
I had previously been okay'd for the $40.00/month vitamin and mineral supplement. So I recently applied for the MNS. Told me they would get back to me in five days. They did-they cut the $40.00 from my cheque! Sweet caring government! Now I am even more in the hole.
2014-03-03
By the way, Minster mcRae, if you REALLY wanted to make this the best Province for PWD's, you might start by having people in your office reply to emails and phone calls. You are all supposed to be there to serve the people!
2014-03-03
Simple Request
Raise the Rates
By doing so all the problems of struggles on this website can be alleviated by a simple increase to at least 1200, even if that increase has to be done over a few years to afford it! Say one hundred dollars extra a month per year over a three years span Example, year one 1006.42, year 2 1106.42, year 3 1206.42, year 4 1306.42
With our modest surplus, It is the right thing to do
Personally I think raising the support to 800, and rent to 500 for a total of 1300 is actually more reasonable with the climate of rising cost in this Province, the most expensive place to live
Even at 1300, it is almost three hundred less than Alberta and could be done over a 4 year period at one hundred more per month, per year
After that, indexing for inflation over the long-term
Hopefully, this can be afforded if our economy improves This may be my last comment for this forum and I have made a lot of posts even under alias names to remain anonymous!
Please consider this plan
Last thing, I think a psychologist should be made available to mental health team clients to talk about their symptoms, their view of reality, how to make life changes, to receive feedback from an expert that is not about more drugs (ie Psychiatrists!)
2014-03-03
The fact that the amount of time between cheques that are issued vary greatly from 28-36 days is a real problem, especially since we are not given enough to live on as it is, a whole extra week or more when it is not a 28 day wait is very difficult to live on and i find myself not eating for a few days when that happens as that is at least 42 dollars more i need for food that is just not available on those really long months, this is violence against disabled people as we do not have a choice but to wait and starve! This is ridiculous when you think about all the money that is wasted on things such as a fancy new spy palace worth billions when your own people are starving to death.
2014-03-03
It's important to reduce barriers for people in BC living with disabilities because then there is more ability and possibility to do what one is wanting to try, like taking care of one's finances, having secure housing, healthcare, working, going to the gym, socializing, riding the bus, et al.
2014-03-03
Well said and agreed. I would also like to see assistance/funding in place for those of us who must travel to doctors/labs/hospitals not on a bus route, where we must drive. I am on my own, and the travel costs are not within my budget.
2014-03-04
It is time to raise the rates. Have a look at this report from the Disability without Poverty Network:
The current amount offered to put forward toward shelter allowance is not consistent with actual rates of today.
Out of curiosity, I tried the "Cost of Living Calculator" in BC: and the amount of support currently offered by disability does not even show up on the calculator!!
Income is a major social determinant of health. With the low amount of support offered by disability, it is extremely challenging to access appropriate housing and other supports.
We are living in poverty in BC because the rates are so low and this is ultimately affecting our health.
2014-03-04
How about having adequate dental coverage? Current dental coverage doesn't cover Crowns and at a cost of around $1250 for one Crown, that is more than my entire disability cheque!
2014-03-04
The government is ignoring the one measure most people on disability and most of their care givers are telling them. They are not even allowing the matter to be discussed, and are not providing an option for stating hit here.
The one measure is: Raise the rates to a liveable sum. Stop making the most challenged people in this province live in poverty!
2014-03-04
Increase dental support to cover greater costs so we can go to most dentists instead of being forced to go to the "poor people" dentist who does a horrible job and is mean and judgemental. Most dentists refuse people with disability and it's another layer of stigma. Why can't it be anonymous, so we don't have to disclose our status?
2014-03-05
Funding was cut for an employment center in Vancouver for people with disabilities. All that is left is BCWorks. I can't go there because the kids who work there have less skills that I. I need a real resume writer, not yet another workshop in how to write a resume. Why can't we get a professional service instead of a course? I'd really like to be a taxpayer and wage earner but so many stupid barriers.
2014-03-05
Hello,
I’m writing on behalf of a number of clients and individuals who have discussed and shared their ideas with me.
First, many have exclaimed that they need more money.
Second, the idea of addressing nutrition more closely was suggested. A caregiver who has an amazing story about how improved diet changed her client’s life, wonders why there is no training on how to provide a healthy, well-balanced diet. While in some contexts diet may be difficult to modify, there should be a basic level of caregiver education and responsibility to ensure best nutrition. This caregiver thought that keeping a daily diary of food, and starting with some case studies could be a powerful way to bring the research into practice. What an inspiring initiative!
Third, homeshares versus group homes: many individuals are pleading to keep group home situations, as this is the best thing for CERTAIN people. For example, a team of caregivers and a small group of residents creates a family of support foreverybody. There are more staff to help problem solve, to provide fresh energy and to introduce diverse opportunities.
Many have expressed concern that the idea of ‘Keeping people in their homes’ is an unrealistic ideal that the province is striving for. So far, this has come with inadequate support to carry out this situation, resulting in limiting the individual’s opportunities and removing them from the community. But since they are ‘living more independently’ it looks good on paper and this ideal is perpetuated. Please note that 'keeping people in their homes' is an ideal that makes sense for certain individuals, so should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Thank you.
2014-03-05
Living in your own home is wonderful, yet without real world shelter rates and no money for repairs it is just a matter of time before PWD people become wards of the state!!!
My roof started leaking, replacement cost $7,500. I got the roof done in sections. Next time???
The RRAP program once covered low interest loans for repairs but was canceled by Harper and BC housing does not cover repairs and $375. a month covers the heat and taxes, nothing more.
You need to have a system in place for house repairs because a roof is $7,000. and supportive housing cost $400,000. per unit or in Abbottford for those 20 men $2.5 million each, be smart and help repair the roof!!!
Doubled shelter rates like Alberta and we can afford to make our own repairs...
2014-03-06
Why can't more jobs be created that people with disabilities can do from home?
Surely there are trained dieticians out there who could help via computer with nutrition plans, one's with PWD status themselves. Of course that changes little if rates are not raised to cover proper nutrition.
Why doesn't the government wake up and cover the medical surcharges for eye glasses, podiatrists, physical therapy, etc ? If we cannot afford shelter or food, how can we afford proper medical?
Group homes are good for some, but what about creating homes for people with small pets, this is the only companionship many have and it is medically proven to aid health.
2014-03-06
Hi, I have a dietician that talks to me via email, tell your Dr you need to see a Dietician and once you meet tell them you would like to talk via email. My dietician sends me recipes and links to cooking ideas.
We did have a homemaker come to our home but it was a little nuts that they paid her about $26. hour plus, 5 hours per week, to cook our out of date food bank scraps, we gave up, I said to them how about let us have one hour of funding at $26. just once a week and we can go out and have a nice meal with fresh foods and no dishes to clean and society could save $400. a month, well of course not! Can you relate?
Precription for glasses can be free if you see an eye specialist, you must have a reason to see an specialist, I am diabetic.
Glasses could be 100% covered by shopping around my glasses cost $150 localy but I go to the next town and it is covered 100%
Podiatrists my spouse just had a $400. pair of orthotics made 100% covered.
Physical therapy, Pysio in 100% covered if done in a Hospital only.
I get my dental done at a First Nations clinic, cleaning fillings 100% covered, crowns forget about it. First Nations dental is funded by Ottawa and the dentists work on salary, much better for poor people, PS I'm not First nations 80% of their clients are not First Nations where I go.
Shop around ask questions most things are covered, I spell NO....KNOW!
2014-03-06
I have shopped around, and I am aware of what is out there. Still have to fight for every little thing, as do most of us on PWD.
2014-03-06
Clearly, a society that chooses to expect persons with disabilities to exist on rates well below the poverty level is not a just or caring society. The PWD rates need to be raised. The first thing that this government did on assuming power was to slash corporate tax rates. This has led to persistent claims that there are no funds available to do the right thing on so many fronts. That has to change to be able to do the right thing for those with disabilities, by raising the PWD rates. Having status as a compassionate society demands this.
2014-03-06
Personally, I am PWMB, person with multiple barriers. I live with a cat who keeps me grounded. My income is my biggest barrier right now. I can not get a job because I suffer pain constantly due to Osteoarthritis and Polymyalgia and I do not have the patients to works with stupid or ignorant persons. I can not find housing that is less than $600 a month that allows me comfort of body and mind. (something that is not falling apart, leaky, moldy or basement suites under a busy and noisy family that is not mine) 2/3 of my income and that does not allow for fresh foods. I purchase fresh vegetables once a month, sometimes I can freeze a portion of them to last out the month. I am also a smoker, before you judge listen, I have been able to cut my intake down to less than 10 a day. I have tried to quit many times and many different ways. I am a person who has lived with PTSD for more than 50 years. I have an intolerance for stupid people and I find it impossible to trust people who are in control of policies that affect my life.
"I am a 5 year old stuck in an aging body. " "I also know more than I should about a lot of things." I would love to be blissfully ignorant again.
I can not share accommodations due to the fact that if things are not done my way the person or persons who are sharing with me end up suffering my wrath. I have lost friends because I have to be in charge.
It would be really be nice to have an income that matched inflation. $900 is not enough to live a comfortable life with food that is not processed because it is cheaper than fresh.
2014-03-06
Just heard from BCCPD (BC coalition of people with Disabilities) they have just lost their Federal Funding for 2 of their advocates that help some 500 PWD clients each year, regarding homelessness, that was 1/3 of their staff.
This another big hit to the Disabled. I know what the real cost is going to be, but we can not say things out loud, anyone think that BC will cover those 2 advocates?
2014-03-06
Treat us like everyone else. Above statement (What can British Columbians do to welcome the contributions of people with disabilities, what barriers can be removed) this statement makes us sound like we are from a other country therefore not all ready included. We should have the same respect, dignity and opportunities has everyone else. SEE MY ABILITIES NOT MY DISABILITY. Better coverage for wheelchairs, walkers etc. better access to CSW'S and programs that are connected to community
2014-03-06
I love that feedback is requested and the website address sent with the last assistance cheque. The site, however, is very difficult to navigate. It took me a long time to figure out how to leave a comment, and I am reasonably computer literate.
Assistance rates must increase. Some people can survive on these rates - but not thrive. After 10 years, all the things I have owned pre-disability are breaking down. How does one replace a washer and dryer, when I don't have enough to buy groceries? How can I get better when I cannot afford counselling, physiotherapy and other beneficial treatments?
My other concern is that applications to access to Provincial and Federal programs and supports are geared towards people with easily identifiable physical or mental disabilities. They are not geared towards people with (often invisible) multiple disabilities that, together, create the same challenges.
2014-03-06
Personal supports we would need :
Technological support - computer and access to internet and computer support. Without a computer PWD are isolated and left out of the loop in regards to work skills and social connections.
Cell phone - I've been struggling to keep mine. It allows me more freedom, if I can call someone if I cannot make it home or need help.
Years ago these things were considered luxuries, but without them, we become out-dated, isolated and are less able to access opportunities.
Connecting with Social Services through phone or internet.
Other aids - for example I'd like to start walking, but I don't have any decent walking shoes. This is a barrier to me improving my health.
A chair high enough so I can sit at my kitchen counter.
2014-03-07
I agree with the other posters the rates "NEED" to be increased. Food has went up @ least 30% over the last few years. How the h*ll do I live on $900/mo.
Over the past few months I've had to come up with some inventive ways of getting food (wink) (wink).
In Alberta they get $1400/mo. and it's cheaper to live in Alberta than BC.
This Gov'ment really needs to get it's act together and realize it's impossible to live on the rates we get.
2014-03-07
It seems to me that the PWD amounts are punative and the ultimate cost, not only to individuals, is society. If people can't afford to eat healthy food and have appropriate housing, they get sick and need to rely on the medical system (cost). The rates seem short-sighted and I understand that Ministries need to stay in budget but if the Province took a broader view they would undoubtedly identify cost-savings by increasing PWD rates.
On a positive note, for those who are able to work, the $800 earnings exemption is much better than the $500 amount previously.
2014-03-07
Clearly, a society that chooses to expect persons with disabilities to exist on rates well below the poverty level is not a just or caring society. The PWD rates need to be raised. It would be really be nice to have an income that matched inflation. $900 is not enough to live a comfortable life with food that is not processed, processed is cheaper than fresh. The idea of addressing nutrition more closely is suggested. I have a double whammy due to chronic depression, bi-polar and hepatitis. The medication I take is not able to alleviate any symptoms because it is supposed to be taken with FOOD, which I do not have, thus putting me deeper into illness. When I can’t stand it anymore I go to the local FAW, and for the cost of humiliation, degrading myself and begging, you get a whopping $20 being considered a crisis grant to help for the month, and if you ask too many times your monthly cheque is not deposited and give out your money so they can monitor your spending. We with disabilities are in CRISIS and no matter what we say, what we ask, how we beg, we cannot even get our most basic needs taken care of. I volunteer in my community once a week, try to do gardening and grow my food as best I can, and the fact that I am a senior and have contributed for a very long time, does not sit well at all. This province not only treats its people with disabilities with distain, they ignore their senior’s needs as well. I never thought I would be witness to this kind treatment as a human being in this supposed enlightened society. I have been on a disability for 10 years; I have $900 to cover rent, electric, phone and the cost of transportation. What is left is frightening, because it has to last the entire month, and that does not include aspirin, toothpaste, milk for the month, bread (fyi: is now $3 a loaf for healthy bread or $2 and what you get is white bread that when you squeeze it between your fingers, is like glue) for the month, fruit or vegetables, a movie, cold medicine, etc.etc. I visit the Food Bank weekly and try to access the services of the community, but without funding there is little else we can do to help ourselves. The Food Bank tries as hard as they can, but suffice to say it only gives enough food for 2 days and most of it is outdated, sugary, and impossible to eat if you are struggling with medication. I am so disappointed that this government chooses to ignore this problem, and to have me STARVE. Having these discussions is as ridiculous as it comes. You, the government can at least put out a paper and say anything you like about disabled persons on a really fixed income. At least you can justify that. I did not wake up in the morning and say, gee, I want to be on disability. I do not have family or large amounts of friends that can help support me, I do not drink, party, do drugs, I can’t afford cable tv. It would be an incredible help if someone could figure out a way to provide basic needs (feeding us) for the disabled and seniors in need. No one is listening and no one is trying to provide a solution to this problem, just sweeping us under the carpet and keeping us quiet and being a statistic. I appreciate this particular forum to express my frustration and disgust with the current provincial government and the mp who oversees distribution of funds to us. To be truthful, I am tired of being treated like a criminal that is trying to cheat or rob the government when I’m in need.
2014-03-08
I'd like to direct my comments directly to the Minister of Social Development.
Firstly, I am a woman with disabilties (yes more than one) I was already on PWD and all of a sudden the Ministry is now taking it away; I just found out via letter received last night at 9pm, March 7th, 2014.
I have always done whatever the Ministry Worker in the local office told me given I have been trying to do AVON, REGAL Sales and never having earnings over $200 in any one month. I still have the same disabilities in fact more as my brain injury is worse, my fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue are worse and none of these are ever going to go away and I'm getting older and weaker every day. I am still a woman with disabilities.
Yet, now the Ministry won' t recognize me, after 5 months of undue harassment from the Ministry, due to some worker who doesn't know me and is arbirarily take away my PWD Status. Now I'm a disabled person with no income and no money to live on at all ! By the way, due to the stress of all of this I had a heart attack !
Hello?! My doctor will still declare me as unfit for work and permanently disabled. And yet this worker will not allow me to collect my benefits.
What is this again, BC wants to be the BEST place in Canada for the disabled to live.
