This Australian research study focuses on the role of 'client' as an analytical tool to understand the dynamics of some of the counter-productive aspects of human services. It describes the life of a man with intellectual disability and vision impairment and the impact on his life of his being cast into the 'client' role. The study offers an insight which increases understanding of the relationship between people with disability and the services that support them. The author suggests that services should be structured around the idea of people with disability being seen as contributing citizens rather than clients. This has implications for the models of support offered. Keyword: Social Role Valorisation; Searchword: Accommodation