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The assessment may also include elements that help identify whether an individual may need to seek other forms of long-term assistance due to limitations that are considered barriers to employment and/or economic self-sufficiency. Additionally, the assessment is used to identify barriers that may be quickly resolved to allow the participant to move into employment or participation in the program, such access to childcare, transportation services and referrals to other supportive services. The assessment is also used to develop, jointly with the participant, an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP).

LWDB or service provider staff screen TCA recipients referred to the WT program for hidden disabilities, such as learning disabilities. They connect individuals who need further assessment and/or additional services with service providers in the community. They also ensure that information related to the individual’s abilities is available to program staff so the staff may assign the participant activities that provide equitable and meaningful engagement. 2. Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) 45 CFR 261.12: WT program staff engage participants in activities designed to move them toward self-sufficiency. This includes services related to barrier removal. WT program staff and the participant are jointly responsible for developing an IRP that specifies the employment goal of the participant, the services to be provided to the participant to overcome/manage barriers to self-sufficiency, and training and work activities the participant must complete. At a minimum, the IRP must include: a. The participant’s employment goal and a plan for moving the individual immediately into employment, b. The participant’s assigned activities, including countable work activities, and barrier removal/management activities. For example: in-depth screening or assessments for hidden disabilities, such as learning disabilities and limited English proficiency (LEP), c. The services for which the individual is being referred to program partners and community agencies, d. The services the individual is being offered through the workforce system, e. The number of hours the participant is expected to complete, and f. The expected completion dates or deadlines associated with the participant’s engagement for the assigned activity(ies).

The participant and WT program staff must both date and sign the plan. 3. Alternative Requirement Plan: Some participants may have circumstances that prevent them from participating in traditional work activities and may be assigned to alternative activities as part of their program participation. Some examples include individuals who may have self- identified as a victim of domestic violence, have medical limitations, substance abuse or mental health issues, learning, or other hidden disabilities. In these situations, WT program staff and the participant will jointly develop an Alternative Requirement Plan (ARP). The ARP will outline alternative activities in which the participant will engage in to move them towards program participation and/or employment by allowing alternative activities until they are no longer needed.