Cultural and Linguistic Competence: What do they mean for respite services?

Cultural competence and linguistic competence are widely recognized by policy makers, service providers, educators, and advocates as fundamental aspects of quality in health and human services. Cultural competence and linguistic competence are viewed as essential approaches for reducing disparities and promoting equity by improving access to, utilization of, and the delivery of services and supports. While the evidence suggests the efficacy of these approaches, many in human services, including respite services and supports, continue to struggle with the full integration of cultural and linguistic competence into their policies, structures, practices, and procedures. This webinar explored the multiple dimensions of culture, defined cultural and linguistic competence, and described their relevance for respite services and supports.

In addition, respite providers can begin to take small steps in making forward momentum in this important arena. Presenters provided tools to help deliberately plan for embracing and advancing diversity and inclusion in respite services.

Featured Speakers:

Tawara D. Goode
Assistant Professor
Director, Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence
Director, Georgetown University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
Center for Child and Human Development
Georgetown University Medical Center

Jed Johnson, MSW, MBA
Managing Director | Aging Services
CARF International