Speak4Yourself
Speak4Yourself
Learn How To Speak4Yourself
This is your space to build the skills to make your voice heard. Self-advocacy means taking the lead in your own life: saying what you need, why you need it, and how things can change.
Whether you’re navigating foster care, mental health, disability supports, or transitioning to adult services, these skills help you stay in control. Our goal is to give you the tools and support to feel confident standing up for yourself — and we’ll always be here to back you up along the way.
RCY's Self-Advocacy Tips
Focus On What Your Problem is
Try to keep your problem focused. Write down or record, what happened, when, who said what, what were the names of the people involved, when did things happen?
Figure Out Your Goal
If you could see into the future, what would it look like if you’re problem was fixed? You’d have more meetings with your social worker? You’d have more supports or services? You’d have a different place to live?
Learn About Any Rules, Policies or Ways That You Can Complain
Knowing the rules can help you protect your rights. Ask for policies, find out what options you have, and learn how to make a complaint if something doesn’t feel right. Understanding the process can help you speak up with confidence.
Know Your Rights
Young people have lots of legal rights and there are a lot of rights in specific situations that need to be upheld.
Communicate Clearly
Speak calmly & clearly and use I statements: “I feel…,” “I need…,” “I’d like…”
Stick to the facts: For example, “I missed three appointments in the last month”.
Team Up: If you feel nervous, ask a trusted person – friend, mentor, or RCY advocate – to join the meeting or phone call.
What Can I Say …
