SERVICE PRINCIPLES TO SUPPORT CORE VALUES
- Allocated Funding Based Upon Individualized Plans
- Rights Review Committee
- Regional "Needs Assessment" Process
- Zero Tolerancefor Abuse and Neglect
Allocated Funding Based Upon Individualized Plans
- For each individual, there must be an individualized plan that is individual-directed, outcome based, emphasizing self-determination and the strengthening of natural support systems. This plan should be comprehensive and ensure that an individual's choices and desired outcomes are being addressed. This plan must be measurable for evaluation purposes and should be viewed as a "living document" constantly evolving as the person's needs change over time. This Individualized Plan should provide the basis/rationale for allocated funding.
- The transfer payment system should establish "Rights Review" Committees to ensure that this principle is upheld. All rights restrictions should be reviewed immediately upon identification, and on a scheduled basis by such committees to ensure they continue to be in the best interests of the person.
Regional "Needs Assessment" Process
- To ensure equal access to services, the Region needs to adopt a process/tool to identify and measure needs and allocate funds. Any process/tool adopted must be respectful of those with developmental disabilities and be strength oriented. Adopting regional criteria for identifying those most in need would help rationalize the funding process and avoid inconsistent funding practices that currently exist.
Zero Tolerancefor Abuse and Neglect
- The Region needs to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy with regard to the abuse and neglect (of all types) of adults with developmental disabilities. As previously noted, standards, policies, orientation and training for developmental service staff and the criminal justice system is needed across the Region. The committee recommends that this core value be adopted.