A voice for Minda clients

Minda clients have been given the opportunity to join workshops that help assist with, and re-establish a client voice.

To facilitate, Our Voice SA are running ten fortnightly workshops from May 13 to September 16, with the end goal being the formation of a Minda Client Consultative Committee.

The Client Consultative Committee will help to lead discussions on issues that clients and their peers are facing including; human rights, decision making, relationships and employment concerns.

They also discuss what’s working and what changes they want to see, with any issues being ultimately given (anonymously) to the CEO and Minda Board for consideration.

Client Shannon who is attending the workshops says that she joined the group because regardless of circumstance, everyone should be able to get a say in how they live their lives.

“People need a fair go and if it doesn’t happen for us now we’ll be in trouble in the future. We need to be strong and speak up.”

Shannon also says that getting empowered through groups like this means that she can learn more about what she and others want, and have their voices heard.

“Self-Advocacy means I can also assist other people that need help at Minda. We are all human beings and we need to be listened to.”

Alison who is representing Our Voice SA at the workshops says the sessions aim to give clients who have not been given the opportunity, choice or chance, to have a voice to be able to speak up, hear what other people have to say and speak up for those who can’t.

“It’s about empowering people living with intellectual disability to become self-advocates and peer supports for each other.”

Minda Client Family and Liaison, Glynis McDuie says that: “I am very excited to announce that Our Voice SA is facilitating workshops in preparation for a Client Consultative Committee to be established, that will give a voice to Minda Clients.”