Choice in Supports for Independent Living (CSIL)

Choice in Supports for Independent Living (CSIL) is a self-managed care option for home support services where funds are provided to eligible clients to purchase and manage their own home support services. 

CSIL adds to and does not replace your efforts to care for yourself, with the help of your family, friends and your community.

To qualify for CSIL funding you must:

• be 19 years of age or older
• be able to direct and manage the CSIL contract obligations, or have an alternate decision maker to do this for you.
• be able to direct all aspects of your care, or have an alternate decision maker to do this for you
• be medically and functionally stable
• require daily personal assistance
• be approved for Home Support services

You must also complete an orientation before you sign the CSIL agreement.

How much funding do I get?

Your Case Manager will work with you to determine the amount of service you will receive based on your personal care needs. We base funding on the current hourly CSIL rate and the number of hours of personal care you need.  CSIL funds cover the costs of managing your home supports (such as wages, advertising, bookkeeping, etc.). 

What are my responsibilities?

You will need to sign an agreement that outlines what you are required to do and how you must report your use of the funds. 

You, or a person who makes decisions for you, are responsible for managing and coordinating your home support services. This includes hiring, training, disciplining and, if necessary, firing your own caregiver(s). 

You are the employer. You must follow Canada Revenue Agency, WorkSafeBC, and Employment Standards regulations. 

You must submit regular financial reports to show how you have spent the funds. 

If you are interested in this program, talk to your Case Manager and visit: BC Ministry of Health Home and Community Care

For more information, please contact an Island Health Community Care Office near you.