Self Advocacy
What is Self-Advocacy?
Self-Advocacy is when people stand up for themselves either individually or in a group.
Self-advocates have control over their own lives and express their views.
Anyone can speak up for themselves but it is important to remember that advocates are responsible for their actions.
Self-Advocacy means that people with learning difficulties get power instead of professionals and staff.
Self-Advocacy groups are a place where people can get better at speaking up for themselves.
Self-Advocacy Is...
Fighting for your rights.
- Standing on your own two feet.
- Doing your own thing.
- Telling people what you want.
- Sharing problems.
- Making choices.
- Taking responsibility for your own life.
- Enjoying the same rights as everyone else.
- Getting rid of words like'spaz, 'cripple' and 'handicapped'.
- Being part of a support group.
- Not letting parents and carers run our lives.
- Coming and going when we like.
Self-Advocacy Isn't...
just about rights; it's about responsibilities too.
- just for the most able; people with severe learning difficulties have a voice too.
- isn't just something you do in a group, it's a way of life.
- isn't a current fad; it's about personal and civil rights.
- isn't a solution to all problems; society will have to change for people to get their rights.
- isn't about being bolshy and aggressive.
- isn't about getting everythin you want; it's about being part of the real world like everyone else.
- isn't just about consultation with services; people decide what they want to speak up about not the services or staff.