Overview
Shaping My Future guide: a guide for people with physical disabilities
The aim of this guide is to help you think through, and make decisions about, possible changes you would like to make to improve your life. To do this the guide contains national and local information, such as:
- people and organisation who can support you to achieve your changes
- your rights
- how different systems work and how to make them work for you
- links to further sources of information and advice
- interactive tools to help you make a plan of action
This guide was commissioned by Essex County Council and written by Together Matters, with the involvement of an Expert Reference Group.
Who the Shaping My Future guide is for and when to use it
The guide is for anyone living in Essex who has a physical disability, impairment or long-term health condition. The guide is aimed at a wide range of people living in a variety of situations, including:
- young people who are beginning to think about their adult lives and want to plan for their future
- adults who would like to plan for a better future
- family members, friends and other allies who are keen to help with planning and making change happen
- people working in health and social care, as well as support organisations, to encourage practice that gives people choice and control in their life
How to use the Shaping My Future guide
The guide is divided into six sections. You only need to use the sections that feel relevant to you.
The best place to start is the first section, 'Getting started with planning'. After this you can work through the guide in whatever order makes most sense to you.
You may wish to work through the guide on your own or it may be helpful to work with someone else. This could be someone that knows you well or someone who has knowledge and skills you might find helpful.
Download the Shaping My Future guide
You can download the full Shaping My Future Guide (PDF, 11.98MB) or you can choose to download the individual sections in this guide.
Printed copies
In line with our commitment to be climate resilient, printed copies are limited. If you need to request a hard copy of the full guide please email shapingmyfuture@essex.gov.uk.