|
Normalization
We believe that the principle of normalization provides a framework for supporting persons in care.
By normalization we mean "the use of culturally valued means to offer persons life conditions at least as good as those of average citizens,
and to enhance or support their behaviour, appearance, experience, status and reputation". (Wolfensberger)
We believe that many of the ideas that follow flow from this principle. |
Rights
We believe that persons in our care have the same human and legal
rights as any other citizen under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
and in the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act. We are committed to respecting these
rights in our operations, and to protecting and promoting them in the community,
including the freedom to make choices, where possible.
|
|
Integration
We believe that persons in care will benefit most by participating in ordinary settings
with ordinary community members. We are committed to supporting them in integrated settings
and experiences rather than segregated ones. We believe that persons in care have a right to
an education in their own community. We also believe that persons in care have a right to access
all services within the community. We anticipate and welcome full participation from family members.
|
Learning
It is within the family structure that we learn most of our values and behaviours. We are committed
to a planning process that is inclusive of family and extended supports.
(i.e. professional, educational, psychological, etc)
|
|
Staffing
We recognize that the achievement of most of our goals will depend a great deal upon the efforts of our staff.
We believe that persons in our care need staff who genuinely care about them as individuals and who see their role
as supporting them in living fulfilled lives. We want staff to be (and feel) valued, and we are committed to doing our best,
within funding constraints, etc., to offer them fair salaries, benefits, and working conditions. We believe that it is crucial
that we work collaboratively with staff and that they recognize and share our commitment to Our Neighbourhood Living Society's mission.
|
Quality Assurance
We think that it is important that Our Neighbourhood Living Society maintains an internal climate of self-evaluation,
and continually looks for better ways to accomplish its goals. We also think that we must remain open to, and encourage:
• external evaluation and feedback
• staying informed about innovative ways to support persons in our care who have intellectual challenges
|
|
Size
We believe that the best way to support persons in our care is in small, family sized settings.
We also believe that Our Neighbourhood Living Society staff should maintain regular contact with
persons in our care and their families in order to support them in a personal and caring manner.
|
Personal Relationships
We recognize that many of the persons in our care have been isolated, as a result of spending
years in institutions. We know that personal relationships are important to a person's growth and development.
We want to help persons in our care to develop a wide range of relationships with people in their community.
|
|
Humane Supports
We believe that it is neither right, nor in the long run useful, to use aversive techniques.
We believe that our persons in care can learn to demonstrate positive behaviour through the use of
respectful, positive, non-intrusive teaching and supports.
|
Community Involvement
We believe the active participation in the community is an essential part of growth and development.
We want to help those in our care find opportunities to participate in community activities, such as
organized and spontaneous recreation, cultural activities, worship in their families’ faith, and association memberships.
In this light we are committed to person centered service.
|
|
Flexibility
We need to remain open to the changing needs of persons in our care within their home and community.
We must always be willing and open to making changes to meet changing needs. |
Individual Support
We believe that the best way to support persons in care is by starting from who they are as individuals,
and planning accordingly, rather than trying to fit them in any particular program.
|
