Speak Up Project Guiding Principles

People who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) have the same rights, freedoms and choices available to people who do not have disabilities.

This includes their right to:

• Be free from abuse and exploitation
• Make their own lifestyle and relationship choices
• Receive accessible community services
• Receive sexual health education and abuse counseling
• Have privacy and confidentiality

Speak Up recognizes that these rights are not always respected or recognized within the lives of people who use AAC.

A common form of abuse for people with disabilities is the denial of sexual expression, the withholding of information about sexuality and the lack of clear policies and procedures within service agencies to support people in their sexual practices and to safeguard them from abuse.