Consent and Accessible Communication
Launch library · evergreen read
Consent conversations need to work for everyone, including people who communicate differently, whether through assistive technology, alternative language, or simply needing extra time to process and respond. Respect means adapting the conversation itself, not lowering the standard being asked of anyone involved. It reflects genuine care for the other person's comfort and choice. It is worth practising even in low stakes, everyday situations.
Patience, clear language, and checking understanding in a way that genuinely suits the person in front of you all support real, informed agreement. Nobody should ever be left out of a conversation simply because it was not designed with them in mind from the start. It is one of the clearest ways to show someone they are respected.
If you would like support thinking any of this through, for yourself or someone you care about, it is available whenever needed. 1800RESPECT can be reached on 1800 737 732, any hour of the day or night, with free and confidential guidance. There is no wrong time to ask for a little support.