Advocacy Guide: Back It ā SelfāDetermination
A calm, detailed guide to ask for what you need, back it with clear evidence, and protect your pace. Use only what helps, and keep your privacy intact.
What this guide does
Use this like a working folder: clarify your ask, collect proof that supports it (āBack Itā), and send a simple, respectful request. Everything is optional, save locally if you prefer.
On this page
Privacy first
No required login. You can print, copy, or save drafts offline. If you choose to email someone, you decide what to share.
Quick start
Step 1 ā Name your need
- What: One sentence request (accommodation, schedule, support, clarity).
- Why: One sentence reason tied to function, wellbeing, or fairness.
- Outcome: What a āyesā changes in practice.
Reason: This supports my executive function and reduces shutdown risk.
Outcome: Iāll arrive regulated and prepared, improving participation and reliability.
Step 2 ā Back it
Gather 2ā4 small pieces that support your ask: logs, emails, policy excerpts, brief notes from a clinician or coach, performance examples.
Keep it short and relevant; youāre connecting dots, not proving your worth.
Step 3 ā Send a kind, clear request
Use the email or letter template below. State the request, attach your āBack Itā pieces, and suggest one simple next step.
Know your rights
Selfādetermination means you choose: what to share, when to proceed, and how to define success. Depending on your context (school, workplace, healthcare), certain policies or laws protect reasonable requests for access, accommodation, and clarity.
- Document context: School, work, healthcare, service provider, or public service.
- Find the policy: Handbook, accommodation policy, service standards, grievance process.
- Map fit: One sentence connecting your request to that policy or standard.
Note: Laws and processes vary by place and setting. Use official sources where possible; ask a trusted advocate if youāre unsure.
Prepare your ask
Clarity worksheet
- Request: What exactly are you asking for?
- Reason: How does this support your function, safety, or access?
- Impact: What improves if the request is granted?
- Alternatives: 1ā2 acceptable options.
- Boundaries: Whatās not okay for you?
Oneāparagraph script
Back It ā evidence package
Choose 2ā4 simple items. Label each with one sentence that ties it to your request.
Evidence menu
- Brief log: 3ā5 dated examples of when the need shows up.
- Policy excerpt: One paragraph screenshot or quote with citation.
- Performance example: Before/after when support was present.
- Professional note: Short statement from clinician/coach (if you choose).
- Email snippet: Relevant prior agreement or guidance.
2āpage āBack Itā template
ā¢ Request: [one sentence]
ā¢ Why now: [one sentence]
ā¢ What changes: [one sentence]
ā¢ Attachments list (2ā4 items)
Page 2 ā Attachments (labeled)
A. [type] ā [1 sentence link to request]
B. [type] ā [1 sentence link to request]
C. [type] ā [1 sentence link to request]
Filename and email subject
Subject: Request for [Request] ā Back It summary attached
Meeting script
Opening
If pushed for personal details
Closing
Followāup plan
Timeline
- Day 0: Send request + Back It packet.
- Day 5ā7: Polite nudge if no response.
- Week 2ā3: Escalate per policy (cc supervisor/ombudsperson) if needed.
- 30ā45 days: Review outcomes; adjust or escalate.
Polite nudge email
Escalation, respectfully
Boundaries and safety
- Your choice: You decide how much to share. Focus on function and outcomes.
- Breaks: Itās okay to pause, regroup, or bring a support person.
- Documentation: Save copies of requests, replies, and meeting notes.
- Escalate when needed: Use the policy process; stay factual and brief.
Templates and copies
Email request
Hi [Name],
Iām requesting [request] to support [function/outcome]. Iāve attached a short āBack Itā summary with 2ā4 items showing where this helps. Iād like to start on [date]. If needed, I can begin with [small pilot] and review on [date].
Thank you for your time,
[Your Name]
Letter header
[Role/Program]
[Date]
To: [Recipient, Title]
[Department/School/Clinic]
Re: Request for [Request] ā Selfādetermination and access
Meeting notes
Attendees:
Request:
Agreed Next Step:
Review Date:
Open Questions:
Resources
Use official policy pages, program handbooks, and trusted advocacy organizations relevant to your setting and location. Keep links you actually use; aim for clarity, not volume.
- Policy links: Accommodation, access, grievance, and timelines.
- Local orgs: Advocacy centers, disability services, ombudsperson.
- Support people: Who can attend, review, or debrief.
FAQ
Do I need to share a diagnosis?
No. You can focus on function, barriers, and supports that work. Share only what helps your request.
What if they say no?
Ask what would make a yes possible, offer a small pilot, or escalate per policy. Keep it brief and factual.
How much evidence is enough?
Two to four short, relevant items are usually sufficient. Quality over quantity.
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