Human Rights Committee Member (Unassociated)

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES/TASKS: The Human Rights Committee (HRC) reviews program policies, procedures and practices which restrict an individual's rights. HRC assures that the agency’s procedures assure, among other things, that processes and practices address informed consent, due process and grievances, least restrictive practices, and appropriateness of fit to the population served and that they broadly reflect community standards for conduct. The Committee will meet quarterly or more frequently as needed.

Committee Participation/Responsibilities

• Review ID/DD program policies, procedures, and practices to ensure that participant and resident's rights are protected, informed consent obtained, due process is followed, and that services are provided in the least restrictive environment appropriate to the resident's needs.
• The HRC reviews all rights complaints, all restrictive interventions including those used in emergency situations, all use of psychotropic medication, any medications used to manage behaviors, any restrictive interventions used to manage behaviors or to treat a diagnosed mental illness.
• Special Training Procedures: The HRC shall approve special training procedures prior to implementation and review those procedures at least every three months, except aversive conditioning procedures which shall be reviewed and approved at least every 30 days.

Requirements/Competencies

• Unassociated with Association House of Chicago – Can not be a former employee, board member, person receiving services or guardian of person formerly served by the agency.
• Previous committee experience is not required. Orientation and education will be provided.
• Knowledge of Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities preferred, preference given to:
  • Persons receiving ID/DD or mental health services
  • Family members of individuals with ID/DD and/or mental health diagnoses
  • Attorneys specializing in human rights
  • Social Workers/Clinicians
  • Medical professionals
  • Community members
• Signed confidentiality agreement
• Ability to participate in quarterly committee meetings