The Principles of Independent Advocacy for People with Disability
- When it comes to independent advocacy for people with disabilities, several key principles guide RIA's provision of effective advocacy services. Let’s explore them:
- Presumption of Rights and Capacity:
- All individuals, regardless of disability, have the right to be free from violence, abuse, neglect, discrimination, and exploitation.
- Advocates work from the standpoint that people with disabilities have the capacity to make decisions about their own lives and should be supported in exercising their rights1.
- Acting with Integrity:
- Advocates uphold ethical standards and act honestly, transparently, and in the best interests of the person they represent.
- They avoid conflicts of interest and prioritize the well-being of the individual they advocate for.
- Independence:
- Advocates maintain independence from service providers, government agencies, and other entities.
- Their loyalty lies solely with the person with a disability, ensuring unbiased support and representation.
- Privacy and Confidentiality:
- Advocates respect the privacy of the individual and handle sensitive information confidentially.
- They seek informed consent before sharing any personal details.
- Evidence-Based Approaches:
- Advocacy decisions are informed by evidence, research, and best practices.
- Advocates use reliable information to support their case and promote positive outcomes.
- In summary, independent advocacy aims to empower people with disabilities, protect their rights, and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes.