New Toronto harm reduction program supports people with intellectual disabilities

A Toronto non-profit says it's launched the province's first harm reduction program for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Safer Steps My Way aims to help people who struggle with alcohol and drug abuse and have historically faced barriers to safe, stigma-free support.

"About three years ago we saw a pretty consistent theme of people within developmental services who were not getting access to housing and other services, and part of the barrier was substance use," said Jennifer Altosaar, manager of the harm reduction program at Surrey Place.

Staff say what makes the program unique is that it's been co-created with people who have lived experience — known as lived experience associates — to ensure it's meeting the community's unique needs.

"We've adapted the documentation, the group content, so they can attend it in a way that is person-centred, plain language and accessible," Altosaar said.

The program, which is funded by Health Canada, launched in Toronto and Kenora-Rainy River region in January and has already seen dozens of referrals.

The organization says the four-year initiative addresses a critical and long-standing gap in the system.

Each support team consists of a behaviour analyst, intensive case manager, social worker and wellness counsellor to ensure the individual is fully supported.

Amy Steele, a harm reduction counsellor at Surrey Place, says there are many reasons why someone trying to repair their relationship with substance use may want to seek therapy, but a large part of it is the stigma they face.

"They might want to talk about reducing their use, why they use, or using more safely," Steele said. "It's really directed by them."

This week the province said it's cutting funding for seven supervised drug consumption sites. Premier Doug Ford said the sites encourage drug use and are not wanted in the communities where they are located.

It's a move that is drawing concern from advocates. But those who work on the frontlines with people who have intellectual disabilities say this community faces even more barriers — and programming tailored to their needs is vital.

"A lot of drug and alcohol programs are group based or fast paced. The language used might be complex or abstract," Steele said.

"We slow it down, we use a lot more visuals and role playing."