The Right Question Strategy helps people navigate systems and advocate for their needs
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the vastly increased need for government services, RQI has developed the RQI Self-Advocacy Tool that staff on the front lines of social services can share with the people with whom they work.
The tool is designed to help people navigate the complex system of services, prepare to communicate, and advocate for themselves and their families amid the crisis. The tool is based on the Right Question Strategy, which prepares people to hold decision-makers accountable by asking better questions and participating more effectively.
Tools for self-advocacy
Anyone providing direct services of any kind can share RQI’s tools with their community and clients.
RQI’s self-advocacy tool for COVID-19
This simple tool allows people to think about the services that are most important to them and prepare questions to advocate for themselves and effectively participate in decision-making when interacting with those services.
User guide for RQI’s self-advocacy tool
This is a quick guide for direct service providers looking to use these tools with the people they work with.
Encuentra aquí la herramienta y la guía en Español
More resources
One small change to strengthen clients' skills to advocate for their needs
Read more: A Pathway out of Poverty for Students in Low-Income Communities: Learning to Ask Questions
This article by RQI Co-Director Luz Santana explores why and how asking questions enhances self-advocacy, and it shares scenarios about using the tools.
Self-advocacy for democratic action
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