In June, the Portuguese Working Group of People with Dementia (GTPPD) took part in a conference organised by the Portuguese Public Prosecutor’s Office (PGR), entitled “The Hearing: Strategies for Better Communication.” The conference formed part of a broader series of events aimed at promoting reflection on the implementation of Portugal’s Legal Framework for Supported Decision-Making for Adults, which provides legal protection for adults who are unable to manage their personal affairs independently due to illness, disability, or behaviours that place them at risk.
The session, attended by approximately 800 participants both in person and online, provided an opportunity for self-advocates and representatives of patient organisations to share their experiences. Among the speakers were Carla Jerónimo and Patrícia Beraud, President and Vice-President of the GTPPD. The discussion and exchange of experiences between justice professionals and the citizens to whom this legal framework applies highlighted the importance of adopting a person-centred approach within the justice system, one that prioritises individualised support tailored to each person’s specific needs.
Reflecting on her participation, Carla Jerónimo said:
“I feel that my participation is important not only for myself, but also for the many other people whom I represent in some way. I shared my story for myself and for those who are no longer able to do so. I felt that I gave a voice to those who no longer have one. People working within the courts have a duty to uphold people’s rights and to build bridges rather than walls. Those bridges connect people and open up new pathways.”
Patrícia Beraud also reflected on the experience:
“I was pleasantly surprised to receive the invitation from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and I was delighted to take part. I believe it is important for all organisations, whether public or private, to be open and willing to adapt some of their procedures, becoming examples of positive change through their actions.”
Initiatives such as this, which embody the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us”, a principle that also underpins the establishment of the GTPPD, help to amplify the voices and perspectives of people living with dementia, contributing to a system that is more responsive to their needs.
