Group Homes

Last updated on July 6, 2015

Group home services are provided in a non-licensed congregate housing arrangement where clients with disabilities or other unique conditions share personal care resources. These services are designed to maximize independence and to support responsibility in areas such as household management, vocational pursuits, and social relationships.

Many communities have group homes, which are generally operated by non-profit societies. Homes range from single-family dwellings to apartment complexes and usually accommodate four to six residents.

Is this care right for me?

If you are an adult living with a disability who could benefit from a group living setting to help support your independence in the community, then group home services may be appropriate for you.

What are the group home services eligibility criteria?

In addition to the general eligibility criteria for home and community care, to be eligible for group home services you need to be:

  • assessed as requiring group home services;
  • appropriately matched with the residence;
  • compatible with existing clients; and
  • able to make independent decisions, either individually or in cooperation with other clients.

To read the general eligibility criteria for all home and community care services, go to:

How do I arrange for group home services?

If you are interested in receiving group home services or know of someone who might be in need of these services, you can contact the home and community care office of your health authority or you can have a health care professional make a referral on your behalf.

For contact information and a detailed description of how to arrange for group home services, please see:

Is there a cost for group home services?

If you are receiving group home services, you are not required to pay a client rate but are responsible for all living costs such as rent, food and utilities.

General Information About Costs

If you would like some general information about the costs of publicly subsidized home and community care services, including the regulations that govern fees, please read:

Other Home and Community Care Services

For a full list of the types of care that are publicly subsidized in B.C., see: