Assertiveness for Users
(For people who use personal assistants in their homes or purchase support through Direct Payment)

• How difficult is it for you to say ‘No’?
• How hard is it for you to make a reasonable request?
• How difficult is it for you to tell someone what you feel and think?
• How easy do you find it to make a complaint?
• Can you behave in an aggressive way when you are frustrated?
• Do you get upset about other people’s behaviour but keep quiet?

Most people find it hard being open and honest about their feelings and thoughts. This can result in feelings of powerless, depression and anger. Sometimes we hold things in for so long that we eventually ‘blow’ and behave in an aggressive way; not getting what we want but just frightening people.

We can all learn to be more Assertive. This means to communicate in a way that respects people but also ensures that people respect us and our rights. Many people who have lived in ‘residential homes’ or have received care through social services or a care agency have not had much experience of taking charge of the support that they received. With Personalisation and Direct Payments times have changed rather dramatically. This course will help you understand your rights and how to get the best out of the people who support you.

The course will look at areas such as:

• What are our Human Rights?
• The rights of people purchasing services.
• What Assertiveness is.
• How Assertiveness can help you claim your rights.
• How you can speak so that people take notice of what you say.
• How you can deal with people who do not respect your rights.
• What you can do if all else fails.

How the course is run:

There will be a small group of people in a similar situation to yourself on this course. The trainer will ensure that everyone feels relaxed, enjoys themselves and leaves the day with useful knowledge.