about us

Access Information & Referral (AIR) is the central point of access for Developmental Services in Wellington. 

Purpose:
  • To provide one number for people to call for information and referrals regardless of age and stage in life.
  • To provide a clear and equitable procedure for filling vacancies.
  • To provide statistics to Developmental Services and the government for planning. 

Eligibility:
 People of any age with a Developmental Disability who reside in Wellington. 

Who Can Call?
Individuals, families, and workers can call AIR for information or referrals.   

Procedure:

  1. AIR verifies that the individual (16 yrs and up), parent or guardian is in agreement with the referral or information being released.
  2. AIR requires documentation (e.g. psychological assessment) to determine eligibility for Developmental Services.
  3. If the person calling is requesting information re. services and resources, AIR describes over the phone and offers to mail the information.
  4. If a referral is requested, AIR describes service options.  Verbal permission is received to record and share basic personal information and specifics regarding the referral within the Developmental Services system.
  5. The referral is then faxed to the service agency(ies) requested. 
  6. Confirmation of the referral and/or information package is mailed to the individual/family.
  7. The service agency then contacts the individual/family or notifies AIR when there is a vacancy.
  8. If on a waitlist, the individual/family or worker can make updates to the referral at any time by completing the Developmental Services Referral Update Form.  This form can be mailed or emailed to Access Information & Referral.  Individuals and families can phone Access Information & Referral if this is more convenient.  AIR reviews the referral priority rating.  AIR notifies the individual/family, service provider and person forwarding the update of any change made in priority rating.
  9. If your phone number, address, or other basic information has changed, this can be noted on the Referral Profile Form.  **You only need to complete the sections in which your information has changed.**
  10. The service agency updates AIR re: service status (e.g. active or closed).
  11. Additional referrals or requests for information can be made at any time by contacting AIR.  The person’s file is updated at this time. 

Click here to download the AIR brochure for further information.