STS or the Community?Be an Informed Guardian
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) requires guardians of residents at STS to be informed of available residential options for their loved one. Under the Messier settlement DDS is required to advise guardians about group homes.
You might be given a document describing benefits and opportunities of Community Living Arrangements (CLA). Many guardians have reported feeling pressured during these informative meetings to move their family member away from STS into a CLA. Guardians should not feel pressured to make this decision. The closure of STS is not imminent and there are many things to be considered. You will have an opportunity to evaluate potential community facilities before making an informed judgment about the suitability of the proposed placement. The Home and School Association is sharing a link to a checklist with potential questions that can help you make an informed decision. Questions regarding medical care, home life, staff, and the provider are listed. Please see the Community Facility Checklist. Our Answer to the DDS
Call for Recommendations on the Future of STS In response to former DDS Commissioner Murray’s request for public recommendations for the future of STS (deadline December 31, 2015), the Home and School Association has made four recommendations to improve the I/DD waiting list crisis in Connecticut and the overall health of the DDS system in Connecticut. Read more… |
The Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L. C. has been frequently misrepresented as a mandate for inclusion, a simple, one-sided declaration that all individuals with I/DD must live in community-based settings. In fact, Olmstead guarantees choice for all individuals, their parents, and guardians. There is no mandate to deny access to institutions, to close institutions, nor to place at risk any individuals who need and choose institutional care. |
