A grassroots group of I/DD parents, family members, and self-advocates with support from LME/MCO members, providers, DHHS, NC System and Medicaid policy experts who see the need for consistent, quality long term Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for the NC Innovation Waiver recipients.

CRISIS I/DD DSP SHORTAGE

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The Need

One of the most pressing critical needs in our community is the need for consistent quality direct care support in the home. Our group is comprised of individuals with intellectual / developmental disabilities, family members, providers, General Assembly liaisons, and LME representatives.

Our goal is to educate legislators on the growing need to address the lack of parity of pay for DSPs in NC. DSP Wages have been stagnant since 1989. One way to increase parity of pay is to pass approval of a minimum $18.00 an hour wage for the direct support professional in the community. The state has already approved this wage for DSPs who work in the state residential facilities.

Please join us and learn why the DSPs are the backbone of our North Carolina delivery of Innovation Waiver services to our most needy population and how they drive quality care for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities..

NO DSPS = NO SERVICES

WE ARE IN CRISIS!

There are a seriously insufficient number of DSPs to provide services. We cannot recruit or maintain them in these critical positions.

Unlike the facilities, there are no backup staff if a DSP falls ill, cannot come to work or simply quits the job.

WHY?

The cause is simple. NC Innovations Waiver DSPs are the lowest paid in-home service deliverers in our state.

The starting wage can be $10.50 an hour. Many receive no benefits. In contrast, our DSPs in the state IDD facilities receive an entry wage of $18 per hour.

SOLUTION

An increase in the hourly wage to at least $18 per hour for NC Innovations DSPs

Assurance that each DSP receives regular work benefits

Implement a system of cost-of-living adjustments

'A 2-fold Crisis': Thousands with disabilities struggle to find the help they need in NC

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View Bryan's Story with his DSP Dave which was published in The Binnacle.

The Binnacle

A lifestyle publication that is by and for individuals with intellectual and or developmental disabilities and their families, sharing the real voices and viewpoints of lived experience.

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