Resource Link

https://gac.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/gac/documents/supported-decision-making/supporter-training--igac-ppt-1-1-10-22.pdf

Resource Description

Introduction: This document is a training guide for people who want to be "supporters" under Illinois' Supported Decision-Making Act. The training helps people understand how to assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in making choices about their lives. The guide was made by the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission to teach supporters about their role and duties.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: Supported decision-making is a way to help adults with disabilities make their own choices instead of having a guardian make choices for them. A supporter helps the person understand information and options, but does not make decisions for them. The person with a disability (called the "principal") picks their supporter and decides what kind of help they want. A supporter can help with things like finding housing, managing money, getting medical care, finding a job, or dealing with school. The principal and supporter must sign an agreement that spells out what kind of help the supporter will give. Two witnesses must also sign the agreement. The principal can end the agreement at any time if they want to. Not everyone can be a supporter. People who work for the principal (unless they are family) cannot be supporters. Neither can people who have been convicted of certain crimes or who have been banned from contact with the principal. The training explains that supporters must act in good faith and keep the principal's information private. The training teaches supporters how to respect the principal's choices, even if the supporter disagrees. It stresses that the principal still makes all final decisions. Supporters should help principals understand their options and share their choices with others, like doctors or teachers. If anyone thinks a supporter is hurting or taking advantage of a principal, they should report it. The training includes phone numbers to call for help. It also lists many resources for people with disabilities, like legal help and advocacy groups. The document ends with common questions about supported decision-making. It explains that other states have similar laws, and that this option works alongside guardianship. The training aims to help supporters understand their role in empowering people with disabilities to make their own choices while getting the help they need.