Competency
The Alberta Disability Workers Association (ADWA) was created to provide a voice for disability workers and “to build recognition of the professionalism of those who work in this field and help them build careers that are supported by relevant education and an enhanced certification process based on recognized core competency standards” (ADWA, 2010). ADWA has been mandated by its membership, since its inception, to research and develop a certification process to be implemented in Alberta.
A Skilled Workforce:
Unlike most other professions, community disability services are made up of workers with a broad range of backgrounds and educational levels. The people whom workers support have diverse talents, personalities and support requirements; the skills that workers must possess reflect the diversity and complexity of their work.
Certifying the workforce would benefit everyone involved and clearly highlight the importance of this valuable profession. ADWA is encouraged by the explorations of a skilled and sustainable workforce strategy known as “Project Blueprint CDS” with Alberta Council of Disability Services.
ADWA’s next steps will be guided by how ‘Project Blue Print CDS’ unfolds. More can be learned here. (Click here).
Benefits of Certification
For Staff:
- a professional identity
- a clear career path
- recognition of experience within the sector
- recognition of academic credentials (post-secondary certificates, diplomas and degrees)
- recognition of informal learning (training provided by employers and/or external organizations)
For People Served and Their Families:
- stable and consistent staffing
- qualified staff who promote lives of meaning, belonging and contribution for the people they work for
- qualified staff who ensure safety and security for the people they work for
For Agencies:
- staff with clearly defined competencies
- a framework to assist in career development and planning
- increased retention
- cost savings – no need to retrain staff with certified credentials who move within the field
For Funders:
- a stable workforce that is qualified to meet contractual outcomes; and
- a workforce that understands the balance between providing safety and security while promoting full and inclusive lives for people with disabilities
For Post-Secondary Institutions:
- a clear direction for curriculum development and student preparation.