For International Day of People with Disability 2017, DSC ran a digital awareness campaign on social media, that also coincided with Human Rights week.
We posted thoughts and questions about issues we see in our daily work. Why? Because rights, freedom and dignity are all something we can get behind.
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“I spoke up anonymously”
Speaking up can be empowering and freeing. Some questions to think about:
- Is there something you want to speak up about?
- How would you like to share this information?
If you wish to speak up about a disability service anonymously, there are three different ways you can do this. You can contact us on 1800 677 342 or email complaints@odsc.vic.gov.au to speak to us about your options.
One thing to keep in mind when deciding what you want to do is that the more information we have, the more we will be able to do.
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“R.E.S.P.E.C.T.”
Abuse and neglect is never OK. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring people are safe and that preventing abuse is part of every-day practice. The idea of “zero tolerance” in all disability services is reflected in the updated Disability Act 2006.
If you’re a service provider, some questions to think about:
- Are you and your staff clear about how to recognise and respond to abuse?
- What are you doing to create safe spaces so that people feel comfortable to speak up against abuse?
There is no one single fix, but abuse and neglect is preventable if we keep the conversation going.
A good place to start thinking about your responsibility is by downloading resources and videos from DSC’s Abuse Prevention forum.
Call 1800 677 342 or email complaints@odsc.vic.gov.au to report an issue. If you or someone you know is in an unsafe or life threatening situation ring Victoria Police on 000.
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“I chose to chat in a cafe”
Accessibility is a basic human right. It’s critical for inclusion in the community, and there are so many ways to be accessible.
Some questions to think about:
- If you want to speak up, what works for you?
- If you’re a service provider, how are you making your services inclusive?
DSC’s Resolution Team supports people to speak up in whatever ways are most comfortable for them. It might be arranging interpreters, using a preferred communication method, meeting in a park or café – even Maccas!
Give us a call on 1800 677 342 or email complaints@odsc.vic.gov.au to discuss any concerns you have. Our services are free, and we’ll be guided by you.
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“Freedom”
A breath of fresh air, a game in the park. Social networks and access to the community gives us all quality of life.
Some questions to think about:
- What do you want to do today?
- If you’re a service provider, how are you supporting community access?
Parks Victoria is doing some great work in improving access to its beaches and parks. Getting out in nature is just one way to enjoy what the world has to offer. There are many other options for all skills and abilities.
Go on, what are you waiting for!
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“Being equal doesn’t mean being treated the same”
We’re all different. So tailoring support to individual needs is often a hallmark of a good service provider.
Some questions to consider:
- Do the supports you have suit your needs?
- If you are a service provider, what choices and options are you providing?
Sometimes having a chat with your service provider is all you need. Other times, you may find it useful to contact DSC to undertake assessment and possibly conciliation. Many complaints are resolved during assessment phase using the four A’s – acknowledge, answer, action or apology.
It’s all outlined here.
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“I wanted to speak directly with the Manager, so I did”
If you’re unhappy with your disability service provider, giving feedback is a good way to create change.
Some questions to think about:
- What would you like to see improved?
- If you’re a service provider, how are you encouraging feedback?
If you would like to see a change in a service you are receiving, you may find seeking advice from a DSC Resolution Team member is all you need to resolve matters yourself.
Give us a call on 1800 677 342 or email complaints@odsc.vic.gov.au. Our services are free, and there is no wrong door.
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“Art’s my jam”
A full, independent life can include freedom of expression and the pursuit of things that bring joy. Creativity, cultural expression, community participation, sports and more.
Some questions to consider:
- What matters to you?
- If you’re a service provider, how are you supporting individual expression and community connections?
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