Self-advocacy

Self advocacy groups help people to get better at speaking up for themselves and makes it possible for people to support each other. 

Discussions in self advocacy sessions often cover work opportunities, housing difficulties, financial concerns, relationships, transport and social activities.

Karen Chandler facilitates the Family Project in Haverfordwest for parents with a learning disability.

This group empowers parents to express their wishes in reviews, child care proceedings, health visits and benefit concerns.  The parents say that the group helps them develop confidence in their parenting skills. This group participates in the Finding the Right Support initiative with Learning Disability Wales.

This photo shows Sharon with some members of the Family Group.

Karen also facilitates the Men's Group.  It is well attended with over 20 members coming regularly. This group is currently working on emotional intelligence using drama and creative writing. The group has developed an agreement as to how they wanted to work together. This is not a set of rules, or a list imposed by the facilitators or support workers - it is an attempt by all members to create a safe space where we can challenge ourselves, feel valued and be listened to.

These are the agreed group points:

Trusting

Calm and cool

Fun and excitement

Give good agreement

Make it real and meaningful

Be honest about how you feel

Make a difference

Make it challenging

Help each other to express ourselves

Respect each other

Caring

Don't be scared to say how we feel

Listen to each other and make sure everyone's involved

Use as many drama tools as we can

Try to include people and make them welcome

The Family Group has a similar agreement devised in the same way by members. These agreements are always up for additions and modifications by members.