Carl was separated from his family at the age of 7 and put in a dingy hostel for people with disabilities. He remained there for the next 40 years, sharing a small room with four others.

When Paul, his advocate, met Carl, he took him to his very first movie — a mind-blowing experience for him!

Paul also discovered that Carl has money left to him by his parents, with the Public Trustee. He took him on his first shopping expedition where Carl for the first time, excitedly chose his own clothes.

Paul then spoke up strongly for Carl and saw to it that he left the hostel and was happily reunited with his brother from whom he was separated all those years ago.

Paul continues to see Carl regularly, ensuring that he has the opportunities he was denied for so long.

 

• Citizen Advocacy began with the recognition that people with intellectual disability are very often dehumanised, rejected, segregated and all too often abused.

• As a result of negative attitudes in society, people with intellectual disability are amongst the most significantly disadvantaged and vulnerable groups in our community.
  

• Since their rejection very often occurs at birth by their parents, they frequently have no one in their lives not paid to be there.

• At best, paid workers have a conflict of interest and a high turnover rate, with the result that people with intellectual disability very often have no one to speak up for them and see to their needs, rights and interests and no constant caring presence to provide them with the security and acceptance we all need to ensure our well being.