Concerns raised over support backlog for children with disabilities [Video]

Families and advocates of children with disabilities are concerned about backlogs in the system leaving some without support.

Some people trying to access these services say they’ve been waiting about a year and are still in limbo.

The Groats’ son has autism and they were approved for services in October of last year but they still haven’t received basic supports, let alone a caseworker for their specific needs.

That means they’re paying out of pocket, about $1,000 a month for things including occupational therapy, speech therapy and counselling.

Inclusion Alberta says they’ve heard from many families with the same struggles.

“It used to be a family would apply and get some supports in place within about six months but now, families aren’t even hearing anything for up to a year,” said Trish Bowman with Inclusion Alberta.

“We just feel that we are bleeding money for services that we are approved …