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The Role of Direct Support Professionals
Introduction to Direct Support Professionals
On this page, you will find information on Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and how their work supports people with disabilities and their families.
The Role of Direct Support Professionals
Every day across the nation, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are working to provide supports and services to people with disabilities of all ages. DSPs are skilled professionals that support people with disabilities to live, work, and play in their communities. DSPs may assist people with disabilities in daily living activities, employment assistance, community involvement, and independent living. DSPs are a vital part of many people's lives, but the DSP workforce currently faces numerous challenges.
What are some current issues facing DSPs?
The DSP workforce faces numerous challenges, including high turnover, workforce shortages, and an absence of education and certification opportunities. Low pay, long hours, limited benefits and career growth pathways also factor into the current workforce shortage.
The DSP shortage is expected to worsen due to increased life expectancy and Michigan's population aging as a whole. If no solution is achieved, then thousands of people with disabilities and seniors will be without the supports and services they need to live independent, fulfilling lives.
Why Your Voice Matters
For people with disabilities in Michigan, DSPs provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to be more involved in their communities, age in place and live independently. Policymakers benefit from understanding the essential role DSPs have in your life and the challenges families face when there are staffing shortages. By sharing your lived experiences, you can educate your elected officials and help them learn how a strong, stable DSP workforce would impact your daily life.
Take Action to Educate Your Elected Officials
Your Voice Can Make a Difference
Lawmakers need to hear directly from people who have lived experience. By speaking up, you are making sure your legislators hear from the people who are directly affected by the laws they vote on.