Self-Advocacy

Ten Steps to Being an Effective Self-Advocate

1. Believe in yourself.

You are worth the effort it takes to protect your interests and your rights. You can do it!

2. Realize you have rights.

You are entitled to equality under the law. Inform yourself by asking questions and using resources, such as The Advocacy Center at 1-800-342-0823 (voice) or 1-800-346-4127 (TDD). Insist that explanations are clear and understandable. Remember that service providers are public servants. They work for you!

3. Discuss your concerns.

Talk directly with your service provider either by phone, in persons or writing a letter. You may bring someone along for support.

4. Get the facts.

Problem solve by gathering information. Get the facts in writing. Ask for the policies, rules or the regulations being cited to you. People sometimes settle for a quick verbal decision that may not be accurate. Hold agencies accountable for the decisions they make.

5. Use the chain of command.

Use an agency's chain of command to make sure a supervisor or someone else with authority has an opportunity to work with you on the problem and resolution.

6. Know your appeal rights.

Request clear written information on your appeal rights either within an agency or outside an agency. Know what the next step will be if you are dissatisfied.

7. Be assertive and persistent.

Keep after what you want. Remember that effort moves bureaucracies. Follow up!

8. Use communication skills.

Have a plan outlining your concerns. Stay calm and express yourself clearly. Be willing to listen because what you hear may be as important as what you say.

9. Ask for help.

Link up with advocacy organizations, such as the Advocacy Center, for more specific information on problems you are having obtaining services related to a disability. Remember there are also community support groups or organizations.

10. Follow up.

Don't give up without using these skills. Agencies are accountable for the decisions they make. You are entitled to know and exercise all your options to obtain the assistance you need. Remember to thank people along the way.

Communication Skills

Communication skills are necessary for successful self-advocacy. These skills can be learned. Classes, seminars, friends and practice will help you improve your ability to advocate for yourself.

Telephone Tips

Use the telephone to gather information, to keep track of your progress and to let people know what you want. Before you call, write down the essential points of what you want to say. Make your conversation brief and clear. Ask for the name and position of the persons you are talking to. Ask when he/she will get back to you or when you can expect action. If this person can't help you, ask who can. If necessary ask for his/her supervisor. Thank the person for being helpful. Keep a record of your call and follow up!

Resources

Use all available resources to improve your communication skills and to learn about your rights. The Advocacy Center for Persons with Disabilities, Inc. at 1-800-342-0823 or 1-800-346-4127 (TDD) has advocates, newsletters and fact sheets to inform you on various topics. Look in your local phone book for community support programs, local information and referral/crisis hotlines, hospitals and mental health centers that may offer informative classes, assertiveness training groups and publications. Classes on communication skills are available through adult education programs, community colleges, community groups, County Extension services and public relations/speaking organizations. The local library has magazines, books, videos and audio tapes to assist you in advocating for yourself.

Writing Tips

You can write to request and confirm information, to present facts or to express your opinion. Keep it short and simple-under two pages if possible. Keep your message positive. You may hand-write the letter if you do not have access to a typewriter or computer, but make it readable. Audio tapes are also acceptable. Be clear about what you want. Be specific and to the point. Send copies of your letter to agency supervisors, advocacy groups or others you want to inform. In some instances you may want to copy your legislator. Put "cc" (copies circulated) at the bottom of the letter with a list of those to who you are sending copies. Keep a copy for your records. This documentation will be useful if you need to follow up.

Meeting Tips

Schedule a meeting with your service provider. Speaking to someone in person can be an effective way to advocate yourself. Plan what you are going to say, then practice. Friends, tape recorders and practicing in front of the mirror can help. Dress accordingly and be on time. Be courteous and call the person by name. Stay calm. State your message clearly and simply. Prepare an agenda. It helps keep you focused on your issues. Be attentive and if you do not understand something, ask questions. If you feel you are not getting anywhere, tell him/her that you wish to pursue your issue further and ask to speak to the persons supervisor. Thank the person for his/her time.