November 22, 2018
Minister MacLeod’s announcement today on Social Reform highlights the intent of the Ontario government to redesign ODSP and Ontario Works, to provide people with more effective and efficient support, while removing barriers between local service systems. The changes will be gradually introduced over the next 18 months.
Improvements were broken into four priority areas:
1. Supporting People Who Have A Disability With Dignity
Minister MacLeod announced the Ontario government intends to redesign ODSP to simplify the process for people who have severe disabilities to receive financial support. Financial eligibility for ODSP will be reviewed yearly, instead of monthly, and the expectation is that front-line staff will work with people to help them connect to other supports.
They announced there will be changes to who qualifies for ODSP in the future, creating a new definition of disability for Ontario that aligns more closely with federal government guidelines.
For those on ODSP and working, the government will be introducing a $6,000 flat annual exemption plus a 25% exemption for earnings above $6,000. The current approach reduces support after monthly earnings exceed $200.
2. Locally Focused Social Services
Today’s announcement references Ontario Works programs and recipients in relation to this priority area. It is unclear at this time what the impact, if any, will be for ODSP Employment Supports or other MCCSS funded employment services, in their delivery models.
3. Moving People To Employment
Highlights include improving employment services for people receiving social assistance, placing a greater focus on outcomes and creating better, more streamlined supports. Additionally, the announcement stated MCCSS will be exploring options for more locally responsive, outcome-driven service delivery models. Throughout the announcement there were several references to a multi-ministry approach toward employment solutions and poverty reduction.
4. Cutting Red Tape And Restoring Accountability
Today’s announcement acknowledged the current system is heavy on government oversight and rules, making it hard to navigate. Minister MacLeod also stated the current system fails to leverage community support networks. To rectify this, the government is proposing a redesign of social assistance programs over the next few years, moving to a simplified system that focuses on outcomes and creates better public reporting of outcomes.
The announcement did not provide in-depth details or timelines for how it will be achieved. As a first step, the government is committed to working closely with delivery partners to develop a plan to phase in changes. ODEN looks forward to working with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services to help people who have a disability gain access to the workforce.
For more information please refer to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services news release Ontario's Government for the People Announces Plan to Restore Dignity, Independence and Empowerment to Social Assistance System as well as the backgrounder Reforming Social Assistance.