My Plan. How to write Individual Support Plans in Easy English

People with disabilities often require information presented in alternative formats. This workshop will focus on the benefits of writing support plans in Easy English and how to write an Individual Plan for people with disabilities in Easy English. Techniques to make the plan “easy to read’ will be explored. You will have the opportunity to put this knowledge into practise with the expert assistance of the trainer.

Content includes: 

• Plain Language, Easy English – what is the difference
• Examples of Individual Plans, and other relevant resources currently available in Easy English.
• Easy English Writing Style Guide and checklist
• Overview of all aspects of development of Easy English
• Practise in developing your written language to Easy English.

Bring an Individual Plan with you. You will have the opportunity to begin development of your own document into Easy English. This will ensure you get the best results from the day.

Audience

This workshop is suitable for people who develop, participate or write plans for people with communication difficulties.

Presenter

Cathy Basterfield

Cathy Basterfield is a Speech Pathologist with over 20 years experience working with people with Complex Communication Needs. Cathy co-ordinates the Accessible Information Service at Scope - Communication Resource Centre. The service provides training, consultancy and translation services to Easy English. Cathy has been involved in resource development and the development and adherence to in-house standards for Easy English. One of the major components of the work of the Accessible Information Service has been the development and involvement of people with limited literacy in the development of functional and practical resources. Cathy was awarded an Ethel Temby scholarship in 2011. She investigated accreditation and universal standards internationally, for people with limited literacy.

Through her role, Cathy also promotes community awareness of the need to make written information accessible for the many people in our community who may be marginalised with low or limited literacy.  Cathy is a strong advocate for increasing awareness of the rights of everyone to be able to access meaningful and functional communication environments in their community and home.