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Advocacy Guide: Part 1 © COFAR Advocacy Guide 2005, All rights Reserved Advocating Effectively on Behalf of Your Family Members and Wards This first section of our Advocacy Guide is intended to give you tips and insights on advocating for the best possible care for your family members or wards with mental retardation. Additional sections will provide you with information on your rights under the Department of Mental Retardation system, as well as procedures, regulations, and policies that are important to know. To use this guide, you don't have to read it all through at one sitting. If you are faced with a specific problem, try skimming through each part, noting the headings as you go, and focusing on those areas that seem most relevant to you. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. This first section of this guide is meant to be read in conjunction with Sections on Protections for Ricci Class Members and non-Class Members. It should also be read in conjunction with Sections 4 and 5 on Individual Support Plans and Guardianship. It is intended for family members and guardians of persons who have been determined to be eligible for DMR services and supports. If your ward or family member has not yet been determined to be eligible, please link to Section 2 on Getting Services (Determining Your Eligibility). NOTE: There are numerous DMR regulations cited throughout this guide in order to best assist you in your advocacy efforts. Be aware, however, that regulations are subject to change by DMR and regulatory citations can become outdated. We will strive to keep this guide as up to date as possible. The full text of all DMR regulations can be found on the DMR website at www.mass.gov/dmr/. Boosting Your Effectiveness as an Advocate There are several ways of boosting your effectiveness in advocating on behalf of your family members and wards. The following are some methods we recommend: Participate in, and make use of, the Individual Support Plan Process The ISP Process is a critical component of the delivery of services and supports and functions as a contract between the family member or guardian and the DMR. If the terms of your family member's or ward's ISP are not being met, there is a clear-cut process for appeal. Be Pro-Active and Speak Out Don't be afraid to speak directly to staff people or officials, or to telephone or write letters on behalf of your family member or ward if you feel there are problems involving his or her care and services. Don't get stuck in dead-end dialogues with people who aren't doing anything for you. Go up the chain of command. |