Re(al) Productive Justice: Communication guide for health and social care professionals

Abstract

The purpose of this guide is to assist professionals in their supportive role as they engage with disabled people to ensure their rights are respected. The way in which requests for support are listened to, acknowledged, and acted upon can make the difference to both the process of support and the resulting outcome. From our research, we have heard from professionals how limited resources stymie the way in which they would like to support people. However, people with lived experience of disability speak of the ways in which accessibility and provision of support by professionals can be improved with some important changes. This guide aims to equip professionals with a broad range of approaches to successfully support people with disabilities at initial stages and their corresponding referral avenues, ensuring that from the outset their lived experience is acknowledged respectfully. It is crucial that all avenues in the provision of support and decision-making consider the accessibility requirements and will and preferences of the person requesting the support.