Direct Support Professionals Workforce

North Carolina is excited to announce an updated Direct Support Professional (DSP) Workforce Plan to address the state’s critical shortage of DSPs. This shortage significantly affects the availability and quality of home and community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The updated DSP Workforce Plan outlines the Department's comprehensive, multi-year strategy that includes strategic recruitment methods, enhanced training and improved worker retention methods. It also reaffirms our commitment to support DSPs and the vital services they provide. Implementation of the plan began July 1, 2025.