KenCrest’s Post

A SOC classification for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) would allow for necessary data collection to effectively impact and improve home and community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). With the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) having commenced the revision of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system now is the time to strike in terms of advocating for the importance of a specific category for DSPs within the new revision. The SOC code has not been revised since 2018. Accurate collection of data in reference to the role of DSPs will enable state and federal agencies to develop more effective policies on workforce challenges and allow DSPs the support they need for better quality of care. Public comment period to OMB is open until August 12th. Let’s maximize this opportunity and make our thoughts known on a SOC classification for DSPs!

What people with impairments should know: It is important to understand that how people with impairments are perceived and treated depends, to a large extent, on society. Disability is a concept. It is therefore necessary to acknowledge the concept, but you don't need to accept how society disables you as a person with an impairment. To deny the existence of the concept of disability and to replace it with words such as "differently able" is not in line with policy and to the detriment of the process of reasonable accommodation. This may place a direct barrier in the way of equal inclusion. Legislation makes a clear distinction between people who have impairments and people with disabilities. I have a severe hearing impairment and am legally considered a person with a disability because the inaccessibility of the community prevents me from being able to compete against others on an equal basis. However, disability can be eliminated through the application of reasonable accommodation. Click here for information and guidelines on definitions and concepts and how to apply them in practice. https://lnkd.in/dkSUgpqm

The California Policy Center for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (CPCIDD) is studying the impact of the direct support professional (DSP) workforce shortage on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). CPCIDD is conducting surveys, focus groups and 1:1 interviews with services providers, individuals served, family members, DSPs, and regional center service coordinators as part of the larger study. The purpose of the study is to gain a better understanding of the limitations imposed by, and the consequences of, the unprecedented shortage of direct support professionals on individuals served by the regional center system. If you are a self advocate (someone who identifies as a person with an intellectual and/or developmental disability), please take three minutes to complete the survey below. If you are a family member, loved one, or otherwise connected to a person with IDD, please share the survey with them and ask them to complete it. Thank you! In English: https://lnkd.in/gepXUZGQ In Spanish: https://lnkd.in/gAGppfw7 #DisabilityInclusion #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityRights

📢 Webinar Alert: May 15, 2024 Join us for an insightful discussion on proactive support strategies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the criminal justice system. Title: Preventing Incarceration: Proactive Support Strategies for Providers Individuals with I/DD often face unique challenges within the criminal justice system, leading to poorer outcomes compared to those without disabilities. But what if we could prevent these crises altogether? In Texas, significant strides have been made to support individuals with I/DD at risk of institutionalization or re-institutionalization. Through Transition Support Teams established under a federal grant, free educational opportunities, technical assistance, and case consultation services are offered to support entities serving these individuals. 🌟 Presenters: Susan LaGrone, Transition Support Team Coordinator, Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities Mark Morris, Transition Support Team Supervisor, Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities Discover how these teams are revolutionizing support services for individuals with I/DD, aiming to create a safer and more just society for all. Learn how your community can prioritize prevention and crisis management skills to empower individuals with I/DD. Register now and receive an on-demand recording of the webinar! #Webinar #IntellectualDisabilities #CriminalJustice #Prevention #SupportServices #CommunityEmpowerment

Spread the Word! Don't miss out on this crucial webinar addressing proactive support strategies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the criminal justice system. Join the discussion on May 15, 2024. Learn from experts at the Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities about Transition Support Teams and how they're reshaping support services for those at risk of institutionalization or re-institutionalization. Let's work together towards a more inclusive and just society. Register now and share this opportunity with your network! #Webinar #SupportServices #Inclusion #CriminalJustice #DisabilityRights #SpreadTheWord

The Functional Assessment and Programming System (FAPS) is a comprehensive evaluation tool used to assess individuals with disabilities, particularly intellectual and developmental disabilities. It helps identify strengths, needs, and goals, guiding the development of personalized support plans. FAPS considers various aspects, including: 1. Physical abilities 2. Communication skills 3. Social and emotional functioning 4. Adaptive behaviors 5. Leisure and recreational interests By using FAPS, professionals can: 1. Identify areas requiring support 2. Set realistic goals and objectives 3. Develop individualized programs and interventions 4. Monitor progress and adjust support plans as needed FAPS aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence, inclusion, and overall well-being.

Many of us recognise the term 'Positive Behaviour Support' (PBS) but often, there's a disconnect between common perceptions and the actual essence of PBS, especially within the NDIS framework. It's easy to oversimplify PBS as merely a strategy for managing challenging behaviours. However, this perspective misses the heart of what PBS truly represents — a comprehensive, person-centred approach aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. PBS under the NDIS is about understanding the individual's needs, their environment, and the reasons behind their behaviours. It's not just about interventions; it's about building capacities, fostering independence, and ensuring that individuals lead more fulfilling lives. 📞 08 8292 5300 ✉️ [email protected] 🌐 https://lnkd.in/gK4BuXPd

📘🎉 New Publication Alert! 🎉📘 We have been waiting for this one to come out and Piper Hutson and I are happy to announce the publication of our latest research article: "Digital Inclusion for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Review of the Current Legal Models and Doctrinal Concepts" in the Journal of Digital Technology and Law https://lnkd.in/gG8kNa3p 🎯 Objective: This work expands our work on supporting neurodiversity efforts by extending into ADA compliance and legal considerations of employers. It delves into the imperative of rethinking traditional notions of accessible environments and digital accessibility, especially in light of the universal needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorders. 🔍 Methods: Through a formal-legal and doctrinal methodology, our research identifies and explores significant gaps between traditional legal perspectives on special working conditions for persons with disabilities and the burgeoning necessities of a digital workplace. We propose multifaceted approaches to digital inclusion, underpinned by an informative analysis of legislation, aiming to bridge these gaps and foster a more inclusive, responsible legal, social, and technological milieu. #DigitalInclusion #AutismAwareness #AccessibleTechnology #LegalReform #DigitalAccessibility #InclusiveDesign #AutismSpectrumDisorder #SocialInnovation #OpenAccess