Compassionate care for all agesExplore careers
For people who care
Your next job could mean more to someone.
The time you give, the choices you respect, the small things you notice. Explore what direct support work looks like and find out what to ask before you apply.
Get the free guide Take a look inside first
Meaningful work.
Everyday moments.
Your next step, made simpler
Find the work.
Find your place.
Take a little time to explore the role, write down your questions, and decide what a good fit looks like for you.
For people.
For possibility.
Ready to talk now? Explore careers.
Free practical guide
Get your free caregiver guide.
Enter your email to receive Before You Take a Caregiving Job, with interview questions and a worksheet to compare the details of a role. We’ll also send two follow-up emails with practical next steps.
Read the guide onlineA little clarity goes a long way
Bring your compassion.
Get a clearer picture of the work.
Before you say yes to a role, picture the person you will support and the week you will actually work. This guide helps you think through both.
What you will take away
A guide you can actually use.
Picture an ordinary day
See how direct support fits into someone’s routines, choices and goals.
Know what to ask
Talk about training, supervision and the help you can expect while you learn.
Find a role that fits
Compare the schedule, pay and travel alongside your own commitments.
A page to keep close
The details that make
a job work for you.
A meaningful role also needs to work in everyday life. Use the comparison sheet to keep the important details in one place before your interview.
See the worksheetYours to print and keep
My next role
Start with what matters to you.
Take a look inside
Before You Take a Caregiving Job
Five useful sections, with questions to bring to an interview and space to compare a role.
Read the full guideA few helpful answers
Before you get started.
What is a Direct Support Professional?
A Direct Support Professional, or DSP, supports a person with an intellectual or developmental disability in everyday life. That can include daily routines, learning skills and taking part in the community.
Is this useful if I am new to caregiving?
Yes. Start with the everyday examples and use the questions about training and supervision to learn more about a role that interests you.
Ready to apply already?
Go straight to the KIDS NW careers page to explore current opportunities and follow the application steps.