Your rights as a client and a human being

There is much debate about human rights these days;  fundamental rights and freedoms that individuals in the UK have access to, http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/your-rights/human-rights/what-are-human-rights/human-rights-act

However, before we rush off to court to ‘fight for our rights’, let’s bear in mind, a simpler, important list which we can apply to our everyday lives and consider in our relationships with others.

1. I have the right to grieve over what I didn’t get that I needed, or what I got that I didn’t need or want.
2. I have the right to say no to anything.
3. I have the right to dignity and respect.
4. I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others.
5. I have the right to terminate conversations with people, if I feel put down or humiliated.
6. I have the right not to be responsible for others’ behaviour, feelings, or problems.
7. I have the right to make mistakes, to not be perfect and to forgive myself.
8. I have the right to grieve over actual or threatened losses.
9. I have the right to be angry with someone I love.
10. I have the right to feel scared and to say, “I’m afraid”.
11. I have the right to let go of guilt and shame.
12. I have the right to make decisions based on any reason I choose and change my mind at any time.
13. I have the right to my own personal space and time needs.
14. I have the right to be relaxed, playful and happy.
15. I have the right to change and grow.
16. I have the right to be in a non-abusive environment.
17. I have the right to be healthier than those around me, taking care of myself…and most importantly; I have the right to add to these rights at any time I choose.