For further information, contact:
Holly Riddle, NC Council on Developmental Disabilities, 919-850-2901
Roy Wallace, The Wallace Group, 877-832-4548 or roy@wallacegroup.com
DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS VITAL TO QUALITY OF LIFE
FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Frontline staff often makes it possible for people with disabilities to live more independently,
in their own homes and communities and at lower cost, saving taxpayers money,
but shortages of direct workers loom
Direct support professionals provide vital services to people with disabilities, so it is important to see the shortages of staff that are coming and intervene strategically, said the executive director of the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities.
“Direct support workers provide invaluable services to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, often determining whether they can have a satisfying life in the community, living among their friends, families and neighbors,” said Holly Riddle. “When people live in real homes in the community, not only are their lives more satisfying but taxpayer dollars for Medicaid-funded services go further.”
Those seeking to hire direct support workers, or direct support professionals (DSPs) as they are increasingly called, are finding it more difficult to locate qualified candidates; staff turnover tends to be high, she said. The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that an additional 1 million DSPs will be needed by the year 2016. A lack of support staff to assist with various necessary tasks, including administering medications, food preparation and assistance with personal care services, will mean that more people with disabilities will have to remain in institutions.
Riddle said she was pleased that Governor Beverly Perdue honored DSPs with her proclamation of Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, an endorsement of their value and service.
The NCCDD has sought to address the impending shortage of DSPs and the need for additional preparation through its support of the College of Direct Support, an online training system that enables direct support professionals to gain important knowledge and demonstrate their increasing competency. Grants have been provided for this significant initiative and early results are favorable. Almost all of the participating organizations reported significant reductions in turnover, while trainees had improved knowledge of support procedures and ethics, gained confidence in their capabilities and developed greater self-esteem.
The 40-member North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities was established in 1973 and seeks to support effective, innovative initiatives that improve the lives and promote community inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Council awards grants to grass roots advocacy groups, government agencies, disability nonprofits and other community organizations.
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