Take a Seat and Let’s Talk: Assertive Communication with Personal Care Attendants

Personal Care Services Who does it ?

Defining the Relationship Who has the power? Who makes the decisions? Who is responsible?

Personal Care Attendant RightsResponsibilities

Person with a Disability RightsResponsibilities

You have the right to have safe and healthy relationships with people you care about and who support you!

What are the qualities of a safe and healthy relationship?

Safe and Healthy Relationship Qualities

A safe and healthy relationship starts with YOU!

Know what is important to you

Know what is important when you are with other people

Definition: Assertive Communication It is the straightforward and open expression of a person’s needs, desires, thoughts and feelings.

Advocate for your Needs While Still Respecting the Needs of Others

Assertive communication tips (if you are able): Listen Use firm, relaxed voice, volume according to place Use direct eye contact Stand or sit straight, balanced, open body posture "I" statements ("I need", "I don't like") Express your thoughts and feelings directly Ask for cooperation ("What do you think about this?” )

 Have them  Set them Boundaries

Tasks Identify one task Describe how you need or want this task to be done

Tasks Identify one task Describe how you need or want this task to be done

Red Flags of Unsafe and Unhealthy Relationship Identify one red flag Describe what you can do to be safe

If You Feel Unsafe 1.Trust your instincts 2.Talk with trusted adults 3.Plan for your safety 4.Think about making a report

Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Programs in Texas Texas Council on Family Violence Texas Association Against Sexual Assault

Safety Plan Reduce the risk of violence Maintain basic human needs Individualized Varies with circumstances

SafePlace Disability Services Fact Sheets Free download in various formats Suggestions:  Identifiers of Caregiver Abuse  Indicators and Reactions to Abuse and Neglect

Report Abuse Complaint  State supported living facility, community MHMR center, or a private intermediate care facility for persons with an intellectual disability group home, call  Home and Community-based Services or Texas Home Living Waiver, call

Resource National Domestic Violence Hotline  safety planning  domestic violence centers referral SAFE (7233) TTY

Cema Mastroleo, M.Ed SafePlace is ending sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change. 24-hour Hotline: SAFE (7233) For Deaf/HH/Deaf-Blind community, please use relay/VRS