Use agreed risk assessment processes to support the right to make choices

An approach that is useful to support individuals in making their own choices is the risk assessment process.

This involves looking at the potential risks associated which each choice and who would be affected, assessing how likely they are to happen and thinking about measures that could be put in place to reduce the risk or eliminate it altogether.

Going through this process can help inform the decision-making process and balance an individual’s rights with their safety. For example, if an individual wishes to participate in a rock-climbing activity, there is always going to be an element of risk, however, careful management of the risk (e.g. using a reputable rock climbing school, ensuring the individual has the correct equipment etc.) can ensure that individual can be relatively safe whilst carrying it out. And being able to partake in the activity could have a positive impact on the overall well-being by increasing confidence and self-esteem and expanding their social circle.