Power Through Knowledge

One participant who was mostly non-verbal in the first session became increasingly engaged over time.

In a recent session, he spoke up confidently and shared several real-life examples of advocating for himself. He described situations that had upset him and how he expressed his feelings and stood up for what he needed.

This shift happened over just a few sessions.

It shows how creating a safe and welcoming space can support people to build confidence, develop their voice and actively participate.

Sara is a woman with an intellectual disability who has been part of VALID’s support group since it began.

Over time, she has grown in confidence and now actively contributes to discussions. She has shared that the sessions have helped her build the knowledge and confidence to speak up for herself, even while navigating language barriers.

Sara recently began attending sessions independently for the first time. Her supporter shared that the program gave her the confidence to take this step.

Sara also encourages others in the group to ask questions and get involved.

Her experience highlights the importance of culturally appropriate, accessible spaces in supporting participation, independence and self advocacy.

David, a person with lived experience of disability, attended several of VALID’s Power Through Knowledge sessions.

Through these sessions, he learned about his rights and the importance of making his own decisions.

This helped him recognise that his support worker was making decisions without consulting him. As a result, David chose to end that arrangement and hire a new support worker who respects his choices.

As David shared:
“I learnt about my right to make my own decisions, and I knew I should stand up for myself and not let anyone else decide what is better for me without asking me first.”

David’s story shows how access to information can lead to greater independence and stronger self advocacy.