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In My Words: What I Want

My Life, My Choice, My Value

Social Role Valorisation is not just theory, it’s my lived experience. It’s about being seen, heard, respected, trusted, and valued.

I want support workers who see me first as a person, and second as someone who might need assistance.

When my roles are valued, I am empowered, and my life becomes fuller, richer, and more independent.

I Want My Image to Reflect My Value

How I am presented matters. It changes how people respond to me.

I want my support workers to:

  • Respect how I dress and present myself
  • Use language that shows my strengths, not limitations
  • Introduce me by my skills, achievements, and contributions
  • Celebrate what I do in ways that others notice

When I am seen positively, doors open. Opportunities follow. People treat me differently, with respect, interest, and trust.

I Want Support That Challenges Low Expectations

Too often, people assume I can’t do something, or that I shouldn’t try. I want my support workers to push me to grow, while keeping me safe.

I want:

  • Challenges that build my confidence
  • Opportunities to make my own decisions
  • Encouragement to lead where I can
  • Recognition that I can learn, contribute, and influence

Support should increase my status, not reinforce limitations.

A smiling young adult with Down syndrome sits at a table wearing a denim jacket, with two support workers blurred in the background engaging in conversation. On the left side of the image are icons and the words "Seen, Heard, Respected, Trusted, Valued." At the bottom, text reads: "When I'm valued for my roles, I am empowered. My life becomes fuller, richer, and more independent."