Presumed Competence

What presumed competence means

Presumed competence means we start from the assumption that a person is capable, intelligent and aware, even when they cannot show it in the ways the world usually asks for. It is not wishful thinking. It is simply the fairer starting point, because an unreliable body does not mean an unreliable mind.

Why it matters for nonspeaking people

When speech is treated as proof of thinking, nonspeaking and beyond-verbal autistic people are quietly written off. Expectations drop, age-appropriate learning disappears, and people talk over them as though they are not in the room. Presuming competence turns that around: it keeps the door open for education, for choice, for friendship and for a voice, whichever form that voice takes.

What it looks like in practice

• Speaking to the person, not about them, and giving them time to respond.
• Offering age-appropriate learning and real information, not endless basics.
• Honouring every form of communication, including spelling, typing and telepathy.
• Assuming a behaviour is communication or a body that is struggling, not defiance.
• Asking the person what they want, and waiting for the answer.

How it shapes the Harmony Hearts vision

Our long-term vision is a sanctuary for nonspeaking people and their families, built around communication, presumed competence, connection, respite, learning, wellbeing, nature and community. Presumed competence is the foundation the rest of it stands on. Everything we build, from the land to the day-to-day support, begins with the assumption that the people it serves have plenty to say.