What are the Boundaries?
WIN’s “customer” is primarily the person served. Often, by extension, the person’s family members are very much involved in the planning for services. Sometimes, a family member may also be the person’s legal guardian meaning that they have legal authority to make decisions for the individual. The areas that a guardian has decision making authority are spelled out quite specifically in the Guardianship Order, and can range from minimal to complete authority in all areas.
WIN strives to work in harmony with the family members because that is in the best interest of everyone, but most importantly, the individual served. We believe it is imperative that the individual’s loved ones values and beliefs are in alignment with ours, but we realize that we are not for everyone! It is important to ensure that we are a good fit because if we are not, even when we all have the best intentions, misalignment can cause confusion and, in extreme cases, can even cause harm.
WIN strives to be authentic in our service delivery and our interactions. We are passionate about our work and our vision. We strive to exceed the standards required by our Accreditation standards that measure quality of service, organization, governance, and operational effectiveness and how these factors impact clients’ reporting on quality of life.
Click the link to learn more about Alberta Council of Disability Services (ACDS) Accreditation .
We enter into a Service Agreement with the individuals we support, and if applicable, with their family members, on an annual basis. Reviewing the Agreement annually gives us all an opportunity to explore what’s working well, what is not working well, to clarify expectations, and as well to review our values, beliefs, philosophical differences and similarities. WIN, like you, is always growing and evolving. While our standard Services Agreement is the same for all the people and families we support, each Agreement can be personalized to suit the specific situation.
- The following points are general expectations that we have of the families who choose our services:
- The family must demonstrate a willingness to engage in open and respectful communication with WIN’s staff members.
- The family must actively participate in the agreed-upon Individual Service Plan/Support Plan and intervention strategies, showing a commitment to the well-being and progress of the family member receiving services.
- The family must adhere to WIN’s policies and guidelines.
- The family must show a willingness to learn and understand WIN’s philosophy, even if they may not fully agree with it, and be open to exploring alternative perspectives.
- The family must demonstrate a willingness to collaborate with WIN’s staff members in decision-making processes regarding the care and support of their family member receiving services.
- The family must actively seek and utilize available community resources and support networks to enhance the overall care and development of their family member receiving services.
- The family must provide timely and accurate information regarding any changes in their circumstances or the needs of their family member receiving services, allowing WIN to adjust and provide appropriate support.
- The family must respect the confidentiality and privacy of other individuals receiving services from WIN and refrain from engaging in any behavior that may compromise their privacy or well-being.
- Ideally, the family will demonstrate a commitment to ongoing growth and learning, actively engaging in educational opportunities or workshops provided by or facilitated by WIN to enhance their understanding of intellectual disabilities and related issues.
- To support a positive working relationship, it is expected that issues and concerns will be dealt with according to WIN policies and procedures.