Rights of Individuals Receiving Services

Our commitment

First Zion Homes respects the legal and civil rights of every person receiving services. Rights are explained at entry and at least annually, in a format the person can understand, with assistance for the individual or guardian when needed.

Your rights include

• Dignity, privacy, respect, humane care, and services in the least restrictive environment
• Meaningful participation in the Personal Plan and choices about services, providers, routines, activities, relationships, and community life
• Freedom from abuse, neglect, exploitation, coercion, retaliation, improper restraint, seclusion, time-out, and aversive procedures
• Privacy in communication, personal space, visitors, mail, telephone use, property, finances, food access, schedules, dress, grooming, and relationships, subject only to lawful and individually documented limitations
• Choice of physicians, dentists, and other professionals and access to personal records as allowed by law
• Contact with a guardian, advocate, Equip for Equality, the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, DHS OIG, IDHS, and the First Zion Human Rights process

Restrictions and service changes

Any modification of a right must be based on a specific assessed need, use the least restrictive approach, follow applicable law, and be documented in the person-centered plan. Services may not be reduced, suspended, or terminated because a person exercised a protected right.

Help understanding your rights

Ask any First Zion staff member for assistance, an accessible explanation, or a current copy of the Illinois Rights of Individuals form. Staff must help individuals contact advocacy and oversight organizations when requested.