Standard One

Diversional Therapists are accountable for their practice with the Consumer in a supportive environment.

Outcomes

• Safe – legal- effective with responses to the holistic changing needs of the Consumer.
• Individual rights are respected and acknowledged.
• The changing needs of the Consumer are addressed and documented.
• Diversional Therapy contribution in the wider community is visible.
• The image and value of Diversional Therapy is enhanced and promoted.

Standard Two

Within their scope of practice be it workplace or with the consumers in alternative environments, the Diversional Therapist is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of their Consumer, co-workers and self.

Outcomes

• Consumers feel culturally and spiritually respected by the following principles of the Treaty of Waitangi: Participation, Protection and Partnership and by meeting the obligations required under the United Nations Principles for the Older Person (1991) based on the Declaration of Rights by the International Federation of Ageing (I.F.A.) and the Health and Disability Sector Standards NZS 8134: 2008 and the Ministry of Health Contractual requirements.
• The Diversional Therapist provides a wide opportunity of choice, environment and decision making and respects the Consumer’s decision in flexibility and freedom of choice.
• That the Consumer’s way of life is supported, encouraged and validated.

 

Standard Three

Understand Maori health inequalities and pay particular attention to the health needs of the community.

Outcomes

• Ensure Diversional Therapy care is culturally appropriate and acceptable to Maori health consumers and their whanau and is underpinned by the recognition that Maori are a diverse population.
• Acknowledge and respond to the identity, beliefs, values and practices held by Maori, and incorporate these into Diversional Therapy plans. Integrate Maori models of health into everyday practice and when developing care plans.
• Provide appropriate care in relation to the health consumer’s age, ethnicity, culture, beliefs, gender, sexual orientation and/or disability.

Standard Four

The Diversional Therapist must work within the framework of a multidisciplinary team with Consumers and significant others.

Outcomes

• Diversional Therapy practice develops within the context of a negotiable relationship with Consumer, Whanua/ family, significant others, and the professional support team.
• The Diversional Therapist will develop an individualised approach to Consumer’s needs.
• Consumers, Whanua/ family and community benefit from Diversional Therapists professional expertise andholistic approach.

Standard Five

Diversional Therapists are committed to ongoing professional development.

Outcomes

• Diversional Therapy practice is based on current knowledge and experience within a changing environment.
• Research is an essential component of Diversional Therapy.
• Diversional Therapy practice is enhanced by discussion of professional issues with the appropriate healthprofessional.
• The Diversional Therapist enhances their practice with input from peers, professionals, non-professionals andother resources.
• A self-development resource manual is compiled and continually updated.
• The Diversional Therapist has an awareness and access to developing technology.

Standard Six

The Diversional Therapist will manage resources efficiently and effectively to meet Consumer’s individual needs.

Outcomes

• Where ever possible resources are provided at the appropriate time, quantity and quality to meet the Consumer’s individual needs.
• The Diversional Therapist will be responsible for facilitating maintenance of all equipment and resources used in activities and special therapies to recognised standards.
• Diversional Therapy is included in the policy and procedure manuals of the employers.

Standard Seven

The Diversional Therapist will demonstrate the awareness of the need of advocacy and confidentiality within the Diversional Therapy setting.

Outcomes

• The Diversional Therapist will be competent to evaluate possible solutions to reduce social and individual inequities in theConsumer’s care.
• The Diversional Therapist will meet the practice requirements determined by the current NZ Society of Diversional and
• Recreational Therapists Inc Code of Ethics.
• All work practices must meet the obligations required under the United Nations Principles for the Older Persons (1991) based on the Declaration of Rights by the International Federation of Ageing (I.F.A.), the Health and Disability Sector Standards NZS 8134: 2008 and the Ministry of Health Contractual requirements.
• The Diversional Therapist will access appropriate health professionals assistance as required. NZSDRT Inc. Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics

Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Amendment Act 2016

Health and Safety at Work Act 2015

United Nations Principles for Older Persons (1991)

Health and Disability Commissioner (the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers Rights) Regulations 1996

Review biannually