Resource Overview
Based on the CHOoSE Project findings, we developed resources to build understanding into the different levels of the housing process, including:
FASD Accommodation Checklist: Solutions at the level of the house.
FASD-Informed Tables: Solutions at the level of the person.
Need Navigational Tables: Solutions at the level of the program.
Process-Centered Map: Solutions at the level of the system.
How to Use these Resources
FASD Accommodation Checklist
Individuals with FASD are unique. Their accommodations should be unique to them as well. The FASD Accommodation Checklist for Housing aims to help identify and address areas of housing where individuals with FASD may require additional supports. We have created 10 categories for assessment of need, along with examples of what could be asked to check that need, and ideas for how that need could be accommodated.
The list of suggested accommodations is not exhaustive. Moreover, not all suggested items may be immediately feasible within the tenancy situation or be appropriate for each tenant. For optimal use, this tool should be completed in collaboration with the tenant.
Click here to download the full FASD Accommodation Checklist.
Click here to download an abbreviated FASD Accommodation Checklist.
Applying the FASD Accommodations Checklist
Below are three categories of assessment for housing-specific needs, including what each need may look like and suggestions for how tenants can be supported.
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Individuals with FASD may struggle with managing personal budgets and remembering to pay bills.
To reduce these difficulties, a housing provider can look into resources for financial aid, provide the tenant reminders for rent payments, or accept an automatic payment system.
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Challenges with general housekeeping can include feeling overwhelmed when the space is too dirty, lacking essential cleaning tools or supplies, and not knowing about available resources (e.g., laundry services).
Some accommodation ideas for general housekeeping include installing in-unit dishwashers and/or laundry machines, checking in with the tenant’s point of contact, and referring them to a cleaning service.
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A tenant may be unfamiliar with or experience challenges navigating the city or town independently. For example, services such as a laundromat or a grocery store may not be within walking distance or easily accessible by public transportation.
As a housing provider, you can close gaps by offering services (e.g., on-site laundry) and sharing resources to help reduce those challenges (e.g., grocery delivery).
FASD-Informed Tables
FASD-Informed Tables were developed during the 'Creating Intersections' project to enhance understanding of the different and complex ways FASD can affect an individual. The tables prompt the user to consider how FASD impacts an individual's mind, body, and well-being, helping to reframe behaviours through a shared lens of FASD awareness. By understanding how FASD may affect them, community members and service providers can better accommodate their needs.
Click here to download the FASD-Informed Tables.
Click here to download a worksheet for the FASD-Informed Tables.
Click here to download an example of successfully using the FASD-Informed Tables.
Need Navigational Tables
The Need Navigational Tables identify particular needs that tenants would like to focus on and improve. Each table corresponds to one of three need categories: Basic Needs, Psychological Needs, or Self-Fulfillment Needs. In the first column, individuals articulate what they need and why it is important to their personal journey (e.g., “I need... because…”). Based on these needs, appropriate goals are then developed. Goals that are created using these tables should be broken down into meaningful, concrete, and achievable steps. The next two columns focus on identifying action items for the individual and the organization that support those goals. The final column is dedicated to measuring outcomes and identifying any additional steps that may be helpful.
Click here to download a checklist for the Need Navigational Tables.
Click here to download a worksheet for the Need Navigational Tables.
Process-Centered Map
The process of housing is not always linear—but it often encounters similar successes, and setbacks. The Process-Centered Map zooms the resources out to consider the entire housing process, specific to the housing provider. By mapping out when and how understanding is built, who needs to be at the table for each person, and so on, understanding can become a part of the process itself right from the beginning. It builds from the Person-Centered Framework for Housing Individuals with FASD, depicted in “Creating Intersections”.
Click here to download worksheet for the Person-Centered Process Map.
Thank you for learning more about FASD and housing!
Improving the lives of individuals with FASD begins with understanding. This course and its resources are a first step in making a difference. We will be regularly working to improve this course, and update what we know about FASD and housing.