Sector Training Activities

Communication & Supporting Skills

DDC is proud to present Communication & Supporting Skills (CASS) – a workshop that supports families to develop and share the range of skills they need to become more confident and effective in their advocacy and decision making on behalf of their family member who has a disability. It has been developed by Parent to Parent, a Queensland network of parents, and has been delivered by families to families across that State.

If you have ever asked:

• What is advocacy and how can I use it most effectively for my family member in practical, day-to-day ways?
• How can I improve my communication and negotiation skills so that I can be heard and can influence things?
• Am I taking care of me? Am I tuned in to how I’m feeling and when I might need support?
• How can we support each other and be comfortable to ask for help when we need it?

DDC believes that people with disabilities and their families are the experts in their own lives and have the right to self-determination and contribution. We value the role of families in supporting and sometimes making decisions on behalf of their family member with a disability because they are most often the people who know their family member best and have their best interests at heart.  We also understand that sometimes families need skills and support so that they can effectively share their knowledge and feel more confident in making decisions and choices on behalf of their family member.

Who can attend?

The course is open to people who have a family member with a disability. The workshop is conducted in an environment that fosters the sharing of experiences and skills in a confidential, respectful and supportive atmosphere.  Participants are never expected to share more than they are comfortable with.