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Updated March 2006 |
This section is an excerpt from the Ontario Works Act, 1997 prescribed by the Province of Ontario.
With the introduction of the Ontario Works Act (OWA) and Regulations, in order to maintain eligibility, all clients, spouses and dependants, are to discuss with their caseworker any leaves from the province for a period greater than (7) days. All circumstances regarding the absence must be taken into consideration when reviewing the client's situation. Where the client's absence from the province is not considered appropriate, the client may not be eligible for social assistance and his/her assistance may be reduced or cancelled.
Persons receiving financial assistance from Employment and Social Services must be residents of the city of Toronto and be able to meet the ongoing eligibility and participation requirements of Ontario Works (OW).
All clients are to be advised of the policy regarding absence from Ontario. The Rights and Responsibilities form specifically addresses their responsibility in this regard. Clients are responsible to advise the caseworker of any plans preferably before leaving the province. If this is not possible, clients are expected to do so on their return to Toronto. They are also responsible to maintain receipts and verification where possible.
An absence of less than seven days (7) does not require approval. Certain situations, such as family health matters, funerals, approved OW activities, etc., may warrant an extended absence. Social assistance may not be affected during these absences.
In order to maintain OW eligibility, all clients, spouses and dependants are to discuss with their caseworker any leaves from the province for a period greater than seven days. All circumstances regarding the absence must be taken into consideration when reviewing the client's situation. Where the client's absence is not considered appropriate, this may affect his or her OW eligibility and result in cancellation or reduction of assistance.
Employment and Social Services recognizes that people may experience personal situations which may require they be absent from the province for a period of time. Also, reasons related to the client's Participation Agreement (PA) and achievement of his or her employment goals may, on occasion, take the client out of Ontario. It may be necessary to consider the client's option to research and pursue employment opportunities outside the province.
Any absence should not jeopardize the ability of the participant to commence, or continue in, an OW approved participation activity. Depending on the individual circumstances, a temporary deferral may be the most appropriate service planning option.
Clients who do secure employment in another province may be eligible for Other Employment and Employment Assistance Activities Benefit, Full-Time Employment Benefit, Community Start Up and Maintenance Benefit and/or Shelter Fund to assist in the move.
The client must provide an explanation for the absence and verification may be requested. If he or she cannot provide verification (e.g., ticked stubs, accommodation receipts etc.), a self-declaration or affidavit may be accepted.
Although it is recognized that clients may be required to leave the province for personal situations or for reasons related to their Participation Agreement and achievement of employment goals, there may be instances where clients have been absent with no appropriate explanation. These situations are to be discussed with, and any action taken, approved by a Supervisor, Direct Program (SDP).
In situations where assistance has been reduced or cancelled, the client must request that his or her benefits be reinstated. At that time, the client must meet all eligibility and participation requirements of OW.
Staff are required to exercise discretion in the review of each individual's situation.
