On behalf of our members, Autism Calgary issued a statement to Alberta Government and Metro Board representatives regarding the Metro Board Statement on Seclusion Rooms dated August 23, 2019:
Request to Uphold Ministerial Order 006/2019,
(Alberta Government’s ban on seclusion rooms)
Recommendation to Develop a Cross Ministerial Complex Case Strategic Framework
On behalf of our members, representing more than 2400 individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Calgary and Area, we are writing this message in response to the Metro Boards Statement on Seclusion Rooms on August 23, 2019.
It is important to emphasise that Ministerial Order 006/2109 prohibits the use of a “room, structure or enclosure, the primary purpose or use of which involves the involuntary confinement or isolation of a student where the student is prevented or incapable of evacuating from the room…”
This ministerial order neither prevents nor limits the use of calming or sensory rooms that can be an important part of an evidence based approach to supporting a child with autism. These approaches assist a child to gain greater independence by setting goals and strategies to teach emotional self awareness and guide a child to self initiate calming techniques. The design and composition of a sensory or calming room depends on the unique needs of the student and their peers, yet supports the objective of a positive learning experience for all students.
We are pleased that educators are predominantly becoming increasingly knowledgeable on evidence based approaches to support students with Autism. However, each year we encounter families where students with Autism are not supported through evidence based practices and/or do not have access to appropriate and timely resources. In some such circumstances school representatives may resort to the use of a seclusion room as an “appropriate” tool to react to a crisis, or in some cases for ongoing behaviour management. Consequently the child may face irreparable emotional and developmental challenges.
We respectfully request that you uphold Ministerial Order 006/2019. This ministerial order will encourage school authorities to continue to evolve educational programming to best align with evidence based practices.
With regards exceptional cases that may lead to requests for exemptions under this ministerial order, we recommend that the Government of Alberta work with cross ministerial partners and community stakeholders to develop a strategic framework. Complex case care requires a cross system approach (Education, Health Care, and Community & Social Services) to bring balance to a child’s life in their home, school, and community. The net affect of accepting the Metro Board’s request is to accept a single system Band-Aid solution to circumstances requiring a broader vision to minimise intrusive / costly lifelong systems of support for the child and their family.
Thank you for your commitment to working with our community to find solutions to support Alberta’s most vulnerable students.
Also note, together with stakeholder’s from across the province, Autism Calgary is supporting Autism Alberta’s Alliance. In fact, this October 11, 2019 in Edmonton, the Alliance is striking their first working groups, including a provincial working group to address complex case care. Please visit the Autism Alberta’s Alliance web page for details and registration.