A Guide for Self Advocates Support Networks Insert two more bubbles – “community” and “neighbours” A Guide for Self Advocates

We would like to thank the input of a panel of self-advocates consisting of Barb Goode, Lorie and David Sherritt, Shirlane Colban, Lindsay Hong and Wendy Menzies who met with Susan Stanfield and Aaron Johannes to discuss the ideas in this book, as well as the input of many other self-advocates in workshops around the province, which are based on C.L.B.C.’s “Belonging to One Another” booklet, itself the product of feedback from support network projects around the province. Jule will add Jim’s name and Victoria Self Advocate Groups

This booklet is about building a network of people in your life. Feel free to make notes in this booklet to make it your own. If there is something you don’t understand, ask someone you trust to help you.

What is a support network?

made up of many different kinds of people who care about you A support network is: made up of many different kinds of people who care about you

A support network is: family and friends

people you spend time with often A support network is: people you spend time with often ● Co-workers ● Team-mates ● Classmates 7

people you spend time with sometimes A support network is: people you spend time with sometimes ● Neighbours ● Friends of friends ● People who know you to see you

people in the community who get to know you A support network is: people in the community who get to know you ● The cashier at your grocery store ● The bus driver

Why is it important to have a support network?

Having a support network is important: so that you can feel welcome and safe Colour buddy and banners; white out or fade some of the outer faces and background to make the inner circle of people stand out more

Having a support network is important: for having fun!

Having a support network is important: so there’s always someone you trust who you can talk to

Having a support network is important: because people in your network will notice if you’re unhappy, or hurt

Having a support network is important: so someone will be there for you in an emergency

Why are we talking about support networks?

We’re talking about support networks because: you may want to feel closer to your family and friends People need unpaid others in their lives...

We’re talking about support networks because: you might have great services but still be lonely New graphic: Buddy in the middle with his head in his hands, surrounded by professionals and staff (similar to cover picture)

We’re talking about support networks because: everyone needs to pay attention to who is in your life and who matters to you

We’re talking about support networks because: you have strengths and gifts to share with others New graphic: Buddy with a “list of things I’m good at”

Where can you meet people?

You can meet people: in your community

Some ideas: In your neighbourhood Through clubs or teams At the coffee shop At self advocacy groups Where you go shopping Your ideas:

through people you already know You can meet people: through people you already know Remove Buddy’s tie

You can meet people: at work Remove Buddy’s tie

How do you connect with people? Start with “hi”…

Connect with people by: being friendly! ● Smile ● Be positive ● Be helpful

Connect with people by: treating others the way you want to be treated Add bubble in first graphic: “Welcome to the potluck!” – remove “Hey thanks for dinner” from second bubble

Connect with people by: asking them what they like to do …maybe you have something in common

Connect with people by: taking it one step at a time

Collect phone numbers of people you want to keep in touch with Call one person Make a plan to do something together What could you do next?

Who can help build your support network?

Who can help build your support network? Your family

Who can help build your support network? Your staff Replace words on banner: “Swim club – sign up now!”, sign up sheet on desk, change words in bubble to “You’ll meet other swimmers!”

Who can help build your support network? Check out: www.bcpersonalsupportnetworks.ca Website for provincial directory 35

Who can help build your support network? Remember – wherever you go, there are people to know! New graphic: waiter and guitar player 36

You can get started…

telling people what’s important to you and how they can help You can get started by: telling people what’s important to you and how they can help 38

keeping in touch with people You can get started by: keeping in touch with people

thinking about who you want in your support network You can get started by: thinking about who you want in your support network Replace this person with Buddy

speaking up for yourself You can get started by: speaking up for yourself ● You have the right to choose who will be in your network. SPEAK UP!

Community Living BC (CLBC) 7th Floor, Airport Square 1200 West 73rd Ave Vancouver, BC V6P 6G5 www.communitylivingbc.ca