Developmental Disabilities

North Carolina Contacts

State Agency Responsible for Providing Services to the Developmentally Disabled

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides services to developmentally disabled individuals through two major Divisions. First, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services focuses on vocational training and rehabilitation for the disabled. With this program, people with physical or mental disabilities receive help entering the labor market. There are 72 local Vocational Rehabilitation offices to assist disabled individuals enter the workforce. Second, the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services provide a wide variety of community-based support services, including sheltered employment and residential services to over 9,000 adults with developmental disabilities to enable them to live and work in the least restrictive setting possible. To access these services there are 33 Local Management Entities under the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services that link disabled individuals with services available in their area.

Sheltered Employment

Sheltered employment services in North Carolina are administered locally through community programs. These programs are part of the local Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services. Local Management Entities (LMEs) are responsible for contracting with private organizations that provide Adult Day Vocational Programs (ADVPs) and sheltered workshops. A listing of Local Management Entities can be found on the following website.

Competitive Employment

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation under the Department of Health and Human Services. Vocational rehabilitation can link employers with developmentally disabled employees. A job coach can help with testing, evaluations and further assessments needed for planning, guidance and counseling, training for job skills, community rehabilitation program training, rehabilitation engineering services, interpreter services, supported employment services, job-seeking skills training, and job placement and follow-up.

Health and Safety

The Division of Occupational Safety and Health, Bureau of Consultative Services, is available to provide assistance to both private and public sector employers. Services provided are free of charge. An employer may request a free on-site consultation by contacting:

The Division of Occupational Safety and Health administers and enforces the 1973 Occupational Safety and Health Act of North Carolina, a broadly inclusive law which applies to all agencies of state and local government. To report health or safety concerns in a public employment setting, first bring it to the attention of the director or supervisor of the agency. If concerns are not resolved contact:

Reporting Abuse and Neglect

The CARE-LINE is the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services? toll-free Information and Referral telephone service. The CARE-LINE will also provide information on whom to call to report abuse and neglect.

As required by Article 6, Chapter 108A of the North Carolina General Statutes, North Carolina, county departments of social services receive and evaluate reports of abuse and neglect to determine whether disabled adults are in need of protective services and what services are needed. To report suspected cases of abuse or neglect, contact either your county Department of Social Services office or the Division of Aging and Adult Services. Follow this link to select the county office you wish to contact: http://www.ncdhhs.gov/aging.

Protection and Advocacy

North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities: The mission of the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities is to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to culturally competent services and supports, as well as other assistance and opportunities, that promote inclusive communities.

Governor's Advocacy Council for Persons with Disabilities: The purpose of the GACPD is to provide a statewide protection and advocacy program; investigate complaints; pursue legal remedies for protection; review and recommend changes in laws; aid and assist local advocacy programs; and advise and assist on employment issues.