About Ontario’s Application for Developmental Services and Supports

In 2006 the Ontario Government announced that it would be transforming developmental services. They wanted to make sure people with developmental disabilities and their families were getting the support and help they needed from government-funded agencies. They also wanted to create new ways for people to access supports.

In 2007 the Ministry of Community and Social Services tried out a new application process for people who were looking for support. They tested it with over 2000 people across Ontario. The results were good, and the government decided to use it for all people seeking supports. This new way of doing things includes using the “Supports Intensity Scale”—a questionnaire that helps us to understand what supports people need to enjoy a positive quality of life.

The new application process (which was introduced in July 2011) is now being used by Developmental Services Ontario agencies. All adults who are now receiving or seeking developmental services and supports will have completed this new application package by 2015.