Direct care staff are dedicated to helping those who need it most -- individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.  The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) employs around 1,200 direct care staff and oversees five facilities across the state.  Two of the facilities provide training and support for individuals with disabilities who need help meeting personal goals.  The other three facilities are mental health hospitals that provide acute care for Kansans who require inpatient mental health services.

At SRS, direct care staff participate in a multidisciplinary team approach in providing support and training to individuals who receive services.  Staff are responsible for documenting all significant incidents, as well as following specific procedures to promote a safe environment.

Each SRS facility provides new employees with intensive education and training specific to the population served prior to assigning direct care staff to work independently.

Developmental Disabilities
Direct care staff help and advocate for the people they serve.  Work assignments focus on integrating individuals into communities, which helps them function as independently as possible.  Assignments include assisting individuals who participate in confidence building events such as the Special Olympics, community based activities, and vocational training.  The degree of assistance provided depends on the level at which each individual is able to function.

Facilities include:  Kansas Neurological Institute (KNI) in Topeka, and Parsons State Hospital and Training Center in Parsons.

Mental Health
Direct care staff teach and role model acceptable behaviors and provide assistance with basic skills, in addition to monitoring behaviors and responses to treatment plans.  The therapeutic nature of the work makes direct care staff vital participants in the assistance of returning individuals to community settings.

Facilities include: Larned State Hospital in Larned, Osawatomie State Hospital in Osawatomie, and Rainbow Mental Health Facility in Kansas City.

Begin your career with SRS by viewing a list of current vacancies at: http://da.ks.gov/ps/pub/