DPPC has been awarded the Administration for Community Living (ACL) grant for more than $1 million to be utilized over a three year period. The Massachusetts Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) will use technology to enhance Adult Protective Services (APS) in two key ways. The expected products are a purpose-built, state-of-the-art database, and a thoughtfully tailored abuse education and reporting technology for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together, these two key technological actions will address shortcomings in the Massachusetts APS system.
- DPPC Database Rebuild – First, in partnership with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, DPPC will develop a custom-built, relational database that can collect critical data, fully participate in the National Adult Maltreatment Reporting System (NAMRS), and streamline DPPC’s operations.
- R3 Technology – Second, DPPC has partnered with self-advocates, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Developmental Services and other stakeholders to oversee development of an enhanced technological abuse education and reporting system – Recognize, Report, Respond (R3) – designed for use by people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD). The goal is to enhance protections by utilizing technology to assist individuals with disabilities to prevent, recognize, report and/or respond to incidents of abuse.