Advocacy

For some people, it can be difficult to express how you feel, and you may think that your voice isn't getting heard. Advocacy is all about making sure your voice is heard.

Advocacy involves understanding the process you're involved in and making decisions, ultimately ensuring that your voice is heard.

Some people can do this for themselves, while others may need support from family, friends, or professionals like Social Workers, Nurses, or Occupational Therapists. However, there are times when people need an independent advocate to help them be heard, and this is where an Independent Professional Advocate (IPA) comes in.

Advocacy is NOT for everyone. To qualify for support through independent advocacy, there are two eligibility criteria:

1. The person must have 'substantial difficulty' being fully involved in the process without an independent advocate.
2. No suitable individual is available to support and represent the person's wishes who is not paid or professionally engaged in providing care or treatment to the person or their carer. This individual may be a family member or friend who understands the complexities of the social care processes.

If this describes your situation and you think you would benefit from the support of an IPA, you are encouraged to contact them for assistance.

Advocates can help you understand your rights, make informed decisions about your life, and support you to speak up about things that matter to you, and this can include supporting you with:

• Understanding how Social Services operates.
• Talking with a professional about your situation.
• Highlighting the options available to you.
• Knowing your rights.
• Helping you make the right decisions.
• Speaking up for you if you are unhappy.

Advocates are guided by the Social Services and Wellbeing Act 2014 to help those needing support.

If an advocate is unable to provide you with the right support, they will help you find the best service for you.