NEW SERVICE DELIVERY MODEL FOR COMMUNITY LIVING BC

A May 2004 report measured the effectiveness and quality of proposed systems and structures to be provided by the new authority for providing community living services. Based on the report’s recommendations, the Community Living BC board has developed a revised service-delivery approach and organizational structure that details how person-centered, flexible services will be delivered in communities across B.C. A copy of the new approach and organizational structure is available at www.interimauthorityclbc.ca online.

The new structure reflects the importance of an organization that clearly defines roles, reporting relationships and accountabilities. The service delivery approach enhances accountability within the organization, to ensure quality services are delivered. A key component of the new organizational structure is the creation of the position of vice president of quality services. This executive, with his or her staff, will monitor the effectiveness and quality of service delivery in the field.

The new model clearly defines the community’s role in planning and evaluating service delivery. It links community input to the organization and ensures necessary staff support for activities that engage the community.

To ensure the community receives detailed information on the new approach and organizational structure, CLBC chair Lois Hollstedt – with Wrenn Weston, acting assistant deputy minister, Community Living Services– will tour B.C. over the next few weeks to meet with individuals, families and service providers.

Key Responsibilities of CLBC

· Provision of quality, individual-oriented services.

· Inclusion of effective strategic planning processes.

· Effective monitoring of services delivered.

How will CLBC services differ from those government has delivered?

· A strong accountability framework is built into the new service-delivery approach to ensure quality service delivery.

· Planning and operational functions for service delivery will be clearly separated, to ensure individual and family needs are properly addressed.

· CLBC will ensure equal access to high-quality services across the province.

Organization and Accountabilities Within the Community

The new model will improve service to individuals and families by creating the following councils, and executive and staff positions within CLBC.

· Provincial planning council – will monitor community-based activities to ensure consistency of service planning and guidelines.

· Community service councils – in an advisory capacity, will liaise with community centre managers and facilitators to identify and address issues and concerns that arise.

· Vice president of quality services – accountable for eligibility and assessment criteria, as well as ensuring equality and consistency of services within available funding.

· Vice president of community planning and development – responsible for maintaining a comprehensive and accessible community-based service-delivery system, and for co-ordinating strategic planning within CLBC.

· Facilitators – assigned to each community living centre, will work in local communities with individuals and families on the creation of individualized plans and community strategies.

· Operations analysts – also assigned to community living centres, will determine eligibility, arrange contracts with service providers and monitor quality of service.

Staffing Considerations

The Ministry of Children and Family Development and CLBC are preparing a human resources plan that explains how positions will transfer to CLBC from the ministry. This plan stresses that the change from the interim authority will not result in overall position reductions.

The ministry will transfer about 400 positions to CLBC. Union staff whose positions transfer directly to CLBC will retain their union status, salary, and seniority and pension benefits. Staff whose positions do not transfer will be offered other available positions within government. Staff impacted by the transfer will be put in contact with a human resource advisor, who will provide detailed information regarding rights and employment options.

More information, including the transformation document and organizational chart for the new authority, is available at www.interimauthorityclbc.ca online.

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Media contact:	Kate Thompson Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Children and Family Development 250 356-1720	Dianne Douglas Community Living British Columbia 604 660-3450

Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services.