Frontline Initiative: DSPs Using the NADSP Code of Ethics

Person-Centered Supports

As a DSP, my first allegiance is to the person I support; all other activities and functions I perform flow from this allegiance.

Furthermore, as a DSP, I will:

• Commit to person-centered supports as best practice.
• Focus first on the person and understand that my role in direct support will require flexibility, creativity and commitment.
• Recognize that each person is capable of directing their own life.
• Honor those who cannot speak by seeking other ways of understanding them.
• Recognize that the unique culture, social network, circumstances, personality, preferences, needs and gifts of each person I support must be the primary guides for the selection, structure, and use of supports for that person.
• Advocate with the person I support and others when the demands of the system override the needs of those I support, or when individual preferences, needs or gifts are neglected for any reason.

View and download the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals Code of Ethics

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