South Carolina Supported Decision Making

A woman and younger girl smiling together, sharing a joyful moment outdoors.

People with disabilities should be assumed competent and able to live independently, make decisions, and choose the support they need.

Three happy people pose with balloons, radiating joy and excitement in a lively setting.

What is Supported Decision Making?

Supported decision making is an alternative to guardianship. It is a person-centered approach that provides people with disabilities the necessary assistance, tools, and information to make their own choices and decisions while respecting their autonomy.

With supported decision making, people with disabilities can make choices about their lives with support from the people they choose. This may include friends, family members and professionals who help them understand their situations and choices so they may make their own decisions without a guardian.

Benefits of Supported Decision Making for People with Disabilities

Guardianship alternatives like supported decision making allow those who need support to access it without giving up their rights or control over their life. Supported decision making enables people with disabilities to maintain their independence and remain autonomous when it comes to personal liberties including the right to vote, the decision to marry, the decision to seek employment, and more.

  • They are always at the center of decision making.

  • They decide who supports them.

  • They retain their legal rights.

  • They are in control of their lives.

  • They learn about decision making, self-determination, and their affairs.

People with Disabilities Without Guardianship are More Likely to:

Icon of a pink piggy bank.

Have a paid job.

Icon of a house with hearts coming out of the chimney.

Live independently.

Icon of a ballot box with a ballot coming out of it.

Vote in elections.

Icon of two people jumping or giving each other a high five.

Make friends.

Icon of church building.

Practice a religion.

Icon of marriage rings interlocking.

Socialize in their community.

Supported Decision Making Success Stories

A cheerful woman in a plaid shirt with long brown hair, smiling brightly at the camera.

Meet Abigail

“I believe Supported Decision-Making is important because it helps young disabled people, like myself, learn how to navigate the adult world as a disabled person in a safe and healthy environment. With the support we need, we can learn to make decisions about our personal healthcare, finances, and housing that will ultimately benefit us in the long run.”

1. A man in an orange shirt with short brown hair smiling broadly, showcasing his happiness and joy.

Meet Gabe

“I believe that supportive decision making is super important because it allows people to ask for help and ask questions about issues they face throughout their everyday life.”

1. A man in an orange shirt with short brown hair smiling broadly, showcasing his happiness and joy.
A young woman wearing a green blazer with long brown hair and brown eyes smiles warmly at the camera.

Meet Isabelle

“Supported Decision Making is meaningful to me because I am able to involve people I trust who want me to live independently and do not see my disabilities as something holding me back, but giving me strength.”