Asking for what I need

Asking for support or changes so that you can participate and achieve your goals may feel daunting.

But, when you ask for supports or changes:

• You can get the most out of your time in your community program.
• You are better able to contribute to the team or program.
• Other young people may also benefit from the supports or changes.
• The program leaders will feel more confident supporting you and other young people.
• You are exercising your established human right to participate in the community.

Disclosing a disability is a personal decision

• You don’t have to disclose your disability to ask for support or changes. Instead, you can talk about changes that can support your achievement or participation more generally (e.g., I find I learn new skills best if I can watch others first).
• If you do decide to disclose your disability, you have a right to privacy and confidentiality.

Some tips for asking for supports or changes:

• Identify what changes or supports could be helpful.
• Think about whether these changes/supports are practical, fair and reasonable.
• Explain how these changes or supports can help you and/or the program.

Some examples are provided below: