Laura and Stephanie are public speakers at numerous community events
Want to make a difference in your community?
Join your local R&R group and make sure your voice is heard!
Rights and responsibilities is a participant-driven advocacy network. First launched in 1998, the groups give participants the opportunity to express their views and ideas, as well as raise and problem-solve any issues they have.
Distinctive Options actively supports participants to develop self advocacy skills within our services and in the wider community.
Meetings are held regularly and are run by participants, for participants, with staff on hand to provide support as needed.
We also invite guest speakers from agencies such as Public Transport Victoria, Vic Police, The Australian Electoral Commission, emergency services, charities as well as individuals with stories of interest to share.
Let's work together to create positive change in our services and in our communities.
Join our R&R meetings
Participants set the agenda and run the R&R meetings.
Participants are responsible for running each meeting along with taking action on any items raised. Regular agenda items include networking, community events, health and wellbeing, safety and personal business.
The group organises guest speakers from organisations such as the Australian Electoral Commission, Public Transport Victoria and various charities.
Bendigo's R&R group meets once a month.
Sunbury's R&R group meets once a week.
For all other locations, please contact us for support to get a new R&R group up and running.
Issues we advocate for
We advocate for ourselves and other participants at DO by bringing up issues that may be of concern.
As participants, we like the meetings as it's a way of sharing information and we can have a voice to coordinators and management.
Greater accessibility on local roads and footpaths.
Advisory group for Macedon Ranges Shire Council.
We organise fundraising activities for local charities.
Participants developed the short film Speak Up in 2016 which helps people to identify and respond to instances of abuse. The film was presented to the public at The Having A Say conference and commended by the Disabilities Service Commissioner.
Get involved
Everyone has the right to have their say, that includes you!
As a member of the R&R group you can provide feedback on organisational issues, including document review and strategic planning. Guest presenters from within the community also attend meetings to give participants the opportunity to ask questions and be educated on what is happening within their local communities.
You may also get involved with our community leaders program, where you visit local school students to share advice on networking with organisations and getting around the community independently.
Would you like to be a guest speaker?
Would you like to start or join an R&R group?
CONTACT US:
Phone: 9740 7244
Email: randrnetwork@d-o.com.au
