Executive summary
The following tips summarise key strategies for more effective engagement processes, as described in detail in this guide.
Top 10 tips for engaging people with a disability:
- Scope the engagement well. Be clear about the purpose of engagement. What information is being sought? What influence will participants have? What timelines exist? What budget is available? How will engagement outcomes be used and feedback provided?
- Be clear about the people to be engaged. Are people with a disability, families, carers, government and non-government service providers and peak bodies included? What are their needs and expectations? How can they support the planning, delivery and evaluation of engagement processes?
- Plan engagement carefully. Ensure venues, processes and written and audiovisual materials are accessible to the full range of people to be engaged. Brief management. Consider using a reference group.
- Allow adequate time. Ensure there is time for agencies to plan well and ensure all necessary access requirements can be met, and there is time for community members to review materials, consult with networks, plan support arrangements, etc.
- Build confidence to participate. Build trust. Provide information in advance. Use venues which are comfortable, accessible and safe. Encourage the participation of support people/advocates. Train and support staff. Put disclosure protocols in place. Ensure that both managers and staff are aware of the engagement.
- Demonstrate good practice. Apply the principles of engagement. Support regional participation. Respect cultural factors. Create opportunities for shared learning. Respect privacy/confidentiality. Provide choice in participation method. Use and/or develop skilled facilitators.
- Use multiple channels. Maximise participation by using multiple communication channels and networks to promote the engagement process, support participation and provide feedback.
- Treat participants as individuals. Use adult language with adults. Talk directly to a person with a disability. Don’t make assumptions about abilities or rely on stereotypes. Respect diversity within disability groups. Use inclusive and respectful language. If in doubt - ask!
- Provide feedback. Provide prompt feedback to participants on how their information has been considered.
- Evaluate. Support continued improvement by reviewing or formally evaluating engagement processed and outcomes.
