The Direct Support Professional (DSP) Workforce Initiative is North Carolina’s coordinated strategy to address the critical shortage of DSPs who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The plan includes recruitment campaigns, training certificate programs, provider grants, retention bonuses, mentorship, and improved career pathways.
Why it Matters in North Carolina
DSP shortages have directly impacted access to home and community-based services, delaying supports for individuals with IDD. DSP turnover is high due to low wages, limited training, burnout, and lack of professional advancement.
Strengthening DSP capacity is essential to fulfilling service obligations under the Samantha R. consent order and ensuring people with IDD can live in their communities.
How it Works
NCDHHS has launched several initiatives to help boost the DSP workforce:
- On Feb. 18, 2025, NCDHHS announced $3 million to recruit and retain direct support professionals. More than 140 provider agencies received funding in recent rounds.
- On July 1, 2025, NCDHHS launched a multi-year Direct Support Professional Workforce plan to implement pilot strategies and evidence-based tactics to address the DSP shortage.
- On Aug. 5, 2025, NCDHHS announced it was partnering with the NC Community College System to offer free training to strengthen the Direct Support Professional Workforce.
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