Services for Persons with Disabilities

The Services for Persons with Disabilities (SPD) Program serves children, youth and adults with intellectual disabilities, long-term mental illness and physical disabilities in a range of community-based, residential and vocational/day programs.

These are voluntary programs designed to support people at various stages of their development and independence.

Programs and resources

• Services for Persons with Disabilities (SPD) Policy
  This policy provides support to individuals with intellectual/physical disabilities and/or long term mental illness. It includes information on program, financial eligibility and basic and special needs.
• Alternative Family Support Program
  This program supports people with disabilities in an approved, private family home.
• Independent Living Support
  This program provides up to 21 hours a week of supports and service for people who require minimum support in their own home.
• Approved Community-based Homes
  Programs that encourage residents to live, work and socialize in the community.
• Licensed Homes For Special Care
  These settings provide support and supervision in homes with four or more beds.
• Direct Family Support
  This program provides supports and services including Enhanced Family Support (EFS), to both children and adults with disabilities who live at home with their families.
• Adult Service Centres
  Community-based vocational programs for adults with disabilities.
• Protection For Persons in Care
  Under this Act, abuse may be physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, neglect, theft or medical abuse.
• Wheelchair Recycling Program
  Wheelchairs for children and adults with a net family income that falls within program guidelines.
• Personal Directives Act (on the Department of Justice site)
  This act enables Nova Scotians to document their wishes regarding what personal care decisions are made for them in the event that they are unable to make these decisions themselves. See also the DCS Service Provider Sample Forms.
• Labour Market Agreement for Persons with Disabilities
  This program offers services to support people with disabilities.
• Send an Email About Services for Persons with Disabilities
  Use our online form.