Resources

As a person with a developmental disability, you have the right to choose your own path and to live your life with as much freedom as possible. Everyone has the same rights protected by the United States and New York State Constitution, but additional rights exist in law and regulation about the services and supports you receive. At Nor-West we fully support individual rights of all participants. Some of your rights include the right to:

• Choose the types of activities that are important to you, and when you want to participate.
• Be safe from mental, sexual, and physical abuse and neglect.
• Feel safe & Be safe from harm.
• Report abuse or if your rights are denied for disciplinary (punishment) purposes by staff.
• Keep all your personal information confidential.
• A safe and sanitary environment.

For a comprehensive list of your rights under OPWDD regulations and NYS Mental Hygiene Law, visit the Know Your Rights page on the OPWDD website (link below).

If something doesn’t feel right, you have the right to speak up. Every person with a developmental disability has the right to be safe, respected, and treated fairly. If you think your rights have not been respected, or something is wrong with the way you are being treated, there are people and programs that can help.

Below, you'll find our collection of links and documents to help you access additional resources, info, and further knowledge of your rights.