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Persons With Persistent Multiple Barriers (PPMB)


Overview: March 24, 2009

Effective: March 24, 2009

The Persons with Persistent Multiple Barriers (PPMB) category provides assistance to clients who have long-term barriers to employment that are not expected to be overcome in the short term despite all reasonable steps by the client.  PPMB clients are exempt from employment obligations.  An earnings exemption is available to encourage clients who want to work to try employment, gain experience, participate more fully in the community as they are able, and earn more income.

Clients may be assessed for PPMB if they have been on assistance for at least 12 of the past 15 months and are unable to achieve financial independence.  Family units where one or both clients are eligible for PPMB may be provided the higher support rate and additional supplements. 

PPMB applies to clients who are eligible under the Employment and Assistance Act.  PPMB is not included in the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Act.  Therefore, PPMB cannot be assessed for spouses of clients with the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) designation.

It is recognized that some clients in this category may overcome their barriers over time and improve their employability while others may not.  Some may have medical conditions that worsen over time and require additional supports.  This is why the PPMB category provides clients with time and supports to overcome their barriers and move towards independence, or transition to other client categories, including PWD designation.