210 likes | 302 Views
Learn about the essential components of an Inclusion/Exclusion policy for Information and Referral services. Discover how to develop and implement effective guidelines for service eligibility. Explore the importance of community resources and handling exclusions in social service databases.
E N D
Starting an I&R Presented by NEBHANDS A Faith Based Community Initiative and United Way of the Midland
What Does an I&R Do? • Brings services and people together • Uncovers service gaps in the community
I&R Components • Resource Files • Classification System • Data Collection
Inclusion/Exclusion Policy • Guidelines to govern which groups are include and which groups are excluded from the resource database
Why do you need an Inclusion/Exclusion Policy? • Consistency • Legitimizes decisions • Makes it easier for staff to determine if an organization qualifies for the database
Inclusion • Nonprofit health and human service agencies • For profit agencies that accept Medicare/Medicaid • For profit agencies providing free or low-cost services or on a sliding fee scale or have a flexible payment plan
Inclusion • Government agencies providing educational, health and human services • Agencies providing specialized I&R, hotlines, helplines, and crisis lines • Churches and civic groups that provide services to the community at large • Support groups
Inclusion • For profit organizations that provide services not offered in the nonprofit community • Programs with a history of service • Programs within your geographic area
Exclusion • For profit and private practitioners • Organizations requiring membership • Organizations that discriminate • Organizations that misrepresent their service, engage in illegal or fraudulent activities, or do not deliver services
Exclusion • Nonlicensed organizations in a field where licensing standards exist • Political or issue oriented groups • Organizations that require religions participation as a condition of service
Disclaimers • Listing in the database is not an endorsement • Agencies are wholly responsible for screening callers for eligibility for service. Referral to an agency does not guarentee service
Policy for Handling Exclusions • Appeals process for excluded or removed agencies • Handling complaints and the removal procedures
Community Resources • Food • Clothing • Housing • Financial Assistance • Substance Abuse Services
Community Resources • Counseling/Mental Health Services • Transportation • Senior Services • Disability Services
Community Resources • Abuse Services • Health/Medical Services • Support Groups
Resources • National • State • County • Local • Internet
Information to Collect • Name, address, phone number, fax numbers, email • Services provided • Eligibility requirements • Hours of service
Information to Collect • Service area • How to make application • Cost and payment • Accessibility
Where to Look for Information • What do you know • Service providers • Telephone book • Newspapers • Internet
Barriers to Existing Services • Transportation • Inaccessibility for disabled persons • Financial limitations • Liability issues
Develop Community Service • Identify unmet needs in the community • Who to bring to the table • Community mapping • Prioritize needs and develop services