Creating an environment where children and adults with complex care needs and other developmental disabilities can receive the care they need while living a fulfilling life is at the core of Safehaven’s mission. These individuals will face systemic disadvantages throughout their lives, and it is crucial to ensure that they have equal access to services and supports so that allow them to thrive with dignity.
Safehaven offers residential and respite care for children and adults living with complex care needs and other developmental disabilities in in five locations (Toronto, Etobicoke, Woodbridge, North York, and Aurora). Having multiple locations in communities across Toronto provides more options closer to home for families in need of these services.
For over 30 years, Safehaven has advanced its services in the developmental services sector and is now the leading provider of these services, offering children with complex care needs a life filled with opportunities and experiences that allow them to thrive. This month, we reflect on the importance of respite and residential care programs for vulnerable populations and why they are necessary in the developmental services sector.
What is respite care?
Children with complex care needs and developmental disabilities may require many hours of care on a daily basis. Respite care programs allow for primary caregivers to receive short-term relief from the responsibilities of providing care to their family member. Respite care facilities in Toronto like Safehaven offer temporary relief anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks, allowing for families who provide care to their child with complex care needs some time to rest and recharge. For many who act as the primary caregiver to individuals with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, down syndrome, and other developmental disabilities, the respite care program is a great option when they need a break.
What is residential care?
Residential care offers a range of community living options for children and adults with complex care needs and developmental disabilities. This program in particular allows for children with cerebral palsy, down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, and other developmental disabilities to receive support specific to their needs. Clients who are in residential care programs are typically there long-term as they require around-the-clock care, and those providing the care have specialized skills. . For families or primary caregivers who do not have the means to provide the necessary support (i.e., their home may not be adequately accessible to accommodate their child, or they may not be able to provide all-day care, etc.), then a residential care program may be a good option. It allows for children with complex care needs to be in a home-like setting where all of their accessibility and care needs are met, and where they are able to create connections and memories with other clients.
Why are these services important to the sector and to children with complex care needs and developmental disabilities?
Children with complex care needs and developmental disabilities deserve a life filled with dignity and respect, where they feel included in everyday activities, and are not deprived of opportunities because of their disability. Needing extra support should not prevent them from living a fulfilled life. Safehaven aims to create a community that is surrounded by support and advocates for inclusion, so individuals with complex care needs can live a life of dignity and respect.
Do you require respite and residential care support for individuals with developmental disabilities and complex care needs? Safehaven provides respite and residential care programs to families in need of support in Toronto and across the GTA, with the goal of providing exceptional care and support to help individuals live a fulfilling life. Call us at 416.535.8525 or contact us here for more information.