How to Involve an Advocate or Family Member

It can be incredibly helpful and empowering to involve a family member or trusted advocate in all of the care and services you receive from the California Department of Developmental Disabilities (“DDS”). Additionally, having someone you trust at your side provides an additional layer of security and protection. Similarly, it can be very helpful to have another person advocating on your behalf. Given the importance of involving family members and advocates in your care plan, it is very helpful to know how to involve an advocate or family member in your DDS services.

You Have a Right to Involve a Family Member or Advocate

You have a right to have a family member or advocate at your side through every step of the process. In general, all you have to do is inform your regional center that a family member or advocate is involved in your care. To do this, you can provide written authorization allowing your family member or advocate to attend meetings, access records, and speak on your behalf.

Similarly, you can give a family member or advocate permission to look at your DDS record. To do this, inform your regional center who your family member or advocate is and specify that you have given that person permission to view your DDS record.

For individuals who cannot make decisions independently, a parent, conservator, or legal guardian automatically has the right to participate. However, even if you are your own decision-maker, you may still choose to have a trusted support person present for advice and advocacy.

What Family Members and Advocates Can Help You With

Key ways to involve a family member or advocate include:

• Attending your intake interview with you.
• Helping you and your care coordinator craft your Individual Program Plan (“IPP”).
• Asking questions about your services.
• Helping you appeal a decision you disagree with.
• Reviewing your DDS record with you.

Advocates can be especially helpful if you need assistance understanding your rights, preparing for an IPP meeting, or challenging a decision. California also funds local advocacy organizations, such as Disability Rights California, that provide free support and representation.

Involving a family member or advocate ensures you have someone on your side to help ask questions, keep track of services, and make sure your voice is heard. By taking this step, you strengthen your ability to get the most out of California DDS services.