Big Changes for B.C. Families: An In-Depth Look at the CYSN Service Expansion

British Columbia is taking a major step forward in how it supports children and youth with support needs (CYSN). On February 11, 2026, the province announced a significant expansion and strengthening of services, backed by a $475 million investment over the next three years.

The goal of these changes is clear: to make the system fairer, easier to access, and better coordinated for families across the province.

See the presentation.

The Three Pillars of Change

The enhancement strategy is built around three core focus areas:

1. Funding for Families: Introducing new, direct financial supports.

2. Expanding Community Services: Increasing the availability of local, free therapies.

3. System Improvements: Streamlining how services are delivered to reduce the burden on families.

   
   

New Financial Supports: Benefit vs. Supplement

One of the most significant updates is the introduction of two new direct-funding programs.

1. BC Children & Youth Disability Benefit

This is a tiered benefit designed for children and youth (up to age 19) with the highest functional support needs.

• Eligibility: Children with a diagnosis associated with prolonged disability or complex developmental needs (e.g., Down Syndrome or Autism with an intellectual disability), or those whose combined needs create significant daily challenges.

• Funding: Families will receive either $6,500 or $17,000 per year, determined through a support planning process.

• Usage: This money can be used for therapies, interventions, respite, or sibling counseling.

  
  

2. BC Children & Youth Disability Supplement

This is an income-tested monthly payment intended to help with the general costs of raising a child with support needs.

• Eligibility: Families must qualify for the federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and meet specific income parameters.

• Funding: Provides up to $6,000 per year per child.

• Income Thresholds: The amount phases out for families with a household income around $285,000–$300,000.

  
  

Expanding Community-Based Care

The province is investing $80 million specifically to bolster community services. Over the next three years, these services are expected to grow by more than 40%.

A key part of this expansion is bringing supports to where children already are. The province is exploring partnerships to allow publicly funded allied health professionals to deliver therapies—such as speech-language or behavioral support—directly on school grounds.

What is Staying the Same?

While much is changing, several critical programs will remain in place:

• At Home Program (AHP): Medical equipment and supplies remain unchanged.

• Family Support Services: Respite funding and pilot disability services continue.

• Existing Programs: Infant Development Programs, Supported Child Development, and FASD Key Worker programs will remain and, in many cases, expand.

  
  

Looking Ahead: The Rollout Timeline

The transition to this new system will be phased to ensure stability for families:

• Spring 2026: MCFD will begin transitioning families currently receiving services to the new benefits.

• March 2027: The Autism funding program will continue to onboard and support individuals until this date.

• July 2027: The first payments for the new Disability Supplement are scheduled to begin.