Columbus Speech and Hearing offers Support Service Provider (SSP) services. SSPs are individuals who provide assistance to clients so that they may lead more independent, productive lives. The goal of this program is to provide access and empowerment to clients without limitations or stripping their freedom. SSPs do not make decisions for the clients but rather provide visual information to aid the client in making their own choices. For example, the SSP tells the client what food is on the shelf at the store, the price, what is on sale and label information. If the SSP goes for a walk in the park or to a restaurant with the client, the SSP describes what the environment looks like. If the client asks the SSP for their opinion, the SSP can assist with evaluating the visual information, with the understanding that people have different ideas and opinions about what looks good or bad, what is popular, what is cheap or expensive, etc. The SSP must use good judgment in giving their opinion to the client. In providing the visual information, client is further involved in their surroundings and feels more empowered in their decisions.
Services Provided
- Sighted guide for errands, recreational activities, shopping, sightseeing, attire selection
- Reading mail, newspaper, books, etc
- Visiting assistance, SSP visits with the client or the client visits with others
Services Not Provided
- Housecleaning: SSPs are not responsible for cleaning a client’s home or apartment.
- Moving: SSPs should not physically move boxes or furniture to help a client relocate.
- Interpreting: SSPs do not provide interpreting services or fill the role of a certified interpreter. SSPs provide visual information, and may use American Sign Language to communicate with the client. Questions about interpreting services should be directed to the SSP Manager.
- Transportation/Running Errands: SSPs do not provide drop-off/pick-up services or run errands without the client. They accompany the clients to outings and complete tasks with them.
- Personal Care Services: SSPs do not help with cooking, bathing or other personal care. The client can apply for personal care services, if they are needed.
- Overnight/Out-of-State Requests: SSPs work in Franklin County only and are not expected to provide services overnight.
- The client is responsible for paying admission or transportation costs for BOTH self and SSP provider when accompanied by the SSP. This includes parking fees, bus fare and/or taxi fare.
Confidentiality
Columbus Speech and Hearing requires that SSPs uphold a high standard of privacy and agree to keep information confidential for the best interest of our clients. The SSP must not speak about who is receiving SSP services or what he/she does while working with their client. Please see the attached Workforce Confidentiality Agreement for more details.
Abuse
If the SSP is verbally, physically or sexually abused by the client or the client is abusing alcohol or drugs, the SSP should leave the client as quickly and safely as possible. For example, if the SSP is at the client’s home, the SSP should leave immediately. If away from the home and the SSP feels safe, the SSP may take the client home immediately, guide them to a bus stop or call a taxi. The SSP Coordinator should be notified immediately of the details of the occurrence.
Cancellation
If an SSP cannot make an agreed upon appointment, it is their responsibility to contact the client to make alternate arrangements. SSPs should give as much advance notice as possible, preferably 48 hours. Repeated offenses can result in termination. Clients should provide reasonable advance notice of cancellation of an appointment by contacting their SSP within 24 hours prior to appointment time, when possible.
If there are any questions or concerns regarding SSP services, providers, or clients; please contact CSH SSP Statewide Coordinator, Dawn Watts at dwatts@columbusspeech.org or CSH Program Manager, Julia Felts at 614-263-5151 or by email at jfelts@columbusspeech.org