Finding the person’s voice

Some important principles 1. It is their voice that counts, not yours 2. Everybody can say things, with or without words 3. What is important to someone may be different from what is important for them

Tools for finding the person’s voice

Autonomous decision-making Supported decision-making Substitute decision-making Person makes choices themselves Person is involved but has help to make choices Others make choice for the person Decision making triangle Should always be heading this way

Important to: Dreams, desires Hobbies, activities Friends, family What makes me happy Possessions I treasure Important to and important for Important for: Things that keep me safe Things that keep me healthy Support I need to do things We need a balance between what is important for and what is important to us. Advocates need to check that things are happening in partner’s life because they reflect what is important to them not just for them.

Total communication Use all of the senses – Touch, familiar smell etc. Sign language/ makaton Pictures and symbols, colours, photos Written word Eye contact Facial expressions Body language Behaviours/actions Multi media Objects of reference Tone/volume/cadence

1. Must have confidence to take a risk and use an unconventional form of communication. 2. Avoid questions that need only yes/no answers or have a built in answer 3. Use open questions 4. Don’t pretend to understand if you don’t

Relationship circle Mary mum Jon-Support worker Nan Julie Doctor