What Is Attendant Outreach?
Attendant Outreach provides non-medical personal support to people with physical disabilities who live in the community. Support is delivered in homes, schools, or workplaces to help individuals remain independent while receiving assistance with daily activities.
Who the Program Is For
Attendant Outreach may be appropriate for individuals who:
- Are 16 years of age or older
- Have a physical disability
- Live in the community
- Need assistance with daily activities
- Are able to direct their own care
- Are able to remain safe between scheduled support visits
This program supports people to live independently by providing reliable support services.
What Support May Include
- Personal care and hygiene
- Assistance with dressing or grooming
- Help with mobility and positioning
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Support with daily routines
How the Service Works
Services are typically scheduled in advance and delivered between 6:00 a.m. and midnight. Clients direct their own services by identifying the support they need and how it should be delivered.
Each client:
- Signs a Service Agreement
- Develops a Client Service Plan
- Reviews their support needs regularly
Clients must be able to manage safely between scheduled visits.
Service Areas
Attendant Outreach services are typically offered based on geographic service areas across Toronto.
Organizing services by location helps ensure staff can provide reliable and timely support. In some situations, services may still be offered outside these areas depending on priority and level of need.
How to Apply
Applications for Attendant Outreach Services are coordinated through the Attendant Services Application Centre (ASAC) at the Centre for Independent Living in Toronto (CILT).
ASAC manages assessment and waitlists in partnership with service providers, including Bellwoods.
For more information, please refer to the Attendant Outreach Information PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a waitlist for services?
Yes. Due to high demand, there is often a waitlist for services. Priority may be given to applicants who:
– Are leaving or have left an abusive situation
– Are being discharged from an institutional setting or are at risk of institutional placement without attendant services
– Do not have a reliable personal support system (for example, individuals living alone or caring for dependent children or aging parents)
– Require attendant services to attend school or maintain employment
– Face safety risks due to a lack of support services
How much support can I receive?
The amount of support varies depending on individual needs and the outcome of the assessment process. Attendant Outreach clients may receive up to approximately 90 hours of support per month.
Are medical services provided?
No. Bellwoods provides non-medical personal support services. Medical care must be arranged through a family doctor or other healthcare providers.
Will staff help with medications?
Clients and/or their families are responsible for ordering, delivery and administration of medications. Personal support workers can provide medication reminders and may assist with medications that are prepared in blister packs when directed by the client.
Is there a cost for Attendant Outreach Services?
Personal Support Services are covered by the Ministry of Health (OHIP).
Additional information is available by contacting us at:
Linta Kunnuthara
Community Access & Intake Specialist
Telephone: (647)-458-2206
E-mail: lkunnuthara@bcclsp.org