Advocating for yourself or your family can feel challenging, but it’s an important skill that gets easier with practice. This tipsheet is a guide to help you navigate conversations effectively and ensure your voice is heard.
What Does Advocacy Look Like?
- Share Suggestions: Offer constructive ideas.
- Voice Concerns: Clearly express any issues.
- Ask Questions: Seek clarity and information.
- Make Requests: Clearly state what you need.
Tips for Effective Advocacy
- Show Respect: Approach conversations with respect. This encourages open dialogue and mutual respect.
- Stay Calm: Present your concerns or suggestions in a calm manner. People are more likely to listen when you’re composed.
- Be Concise: Stick to 3-4 main points. Keep your message clear. You might say:
- “I would like to suggest…”
- “I would like to request…”
- “I am concerned about… because…”
- Use Sensitivity or Humor: A light touch can help your message be received more positively.
- Be Solution-Oriented: Offer possible solutions and explain how they could improve the situation.
- Listen Actively: After presenting your points, be open to the other person's feedback. Invite discussion.
- Involve Others if Appropriate: If relevant, include the person involved in the conversation, but ensure you’re comfortable with this.
- Express Gratitude: Thank the person for their time and assistance. A little appreciation goes a long way.
- Clarify Next Steps: End by confirming any follow-up actions and timelines. Ask when you can expect a response.
Remember: Advocacy is about treating others as you wish to be treated. Your voice is important, and by practicing these tips, you can help create a better environment for yourself and your family
Helpful Resources
Holland Bloorview: Advocacy Tool Kit
- Demonstrating how to apply advocacy skills to different situations throughout early childhood and adolescence
- This article highlights tips for parents on being a persuasive advocate for students with disabilities.
March of Dimes Canada: Disability Advocacy Network
- March of Dimes Canada’s Disability Advocacy Network is a national network where you can build the skills to advocate for yourself and speak out about the issues that matter to people with disabilities across Canada
Advocacy: How to Deal with Concerns at School
- This resource goes through the “pathway” on who to connect with while advocating for your child at school.
Advocating for your Child in the Healthcare System
- This article goes through processes and tips for advocating for your child throughout the healthcare system.
Feel empowered to speak up and advocate for yourself and your family!
