Code of Silence

Another great NADSP call today, moving forward for the profession of Direct Support. The push is developing a PROFESSIONAL workforce,setting the expectation, guided by the Direct Support Professionals Code of Ethics.
As I hear Joe M repeatedly tell us that the first code is your allegiance to the person you support and that all action stems from this allegiance.
It registers home every time I observe an action in supporting someone with unique needs. Was the intent of that action for the person served, for the benefit of an organization or the employee.
There seems to be a Code of Silence among direct support workers. I will cover for you if you cover for me. It is all good until it is all discovered. It is the most subtle form of neglect happening in the field today.
In the years that I have had the opportunity to support persons I have observed many actions where the intent was so professional I was amazed at the ease that those direct support people went about their work. I also have many moments etched in my memory where that were actions that were less than intentional or professional, and sometimes downright neglect and abuse.
The NADSP is working toward eliminating the question of acting with intention. Where all DSP's will live the Code of Ethics. Where their actions will be professional, with intention, in the best interest of the person served.
I look forward to the day.