Advocacy is a widely accepted principle of good practice. In many ways, though it now has a significant history within services, Advocacy is often implemented half-heartedly with a lack of real commitment.
An advocate can help someone work out precisely what they want, if necessary, and then challenge services on the person’s behalf.
Why is Advocacy important?
- There is a substantial power imbalance in favour of authorities.
- Individuals may be lacking in confidence to express their wishes and views.
- They (individuals) may not have the verbal or other communication skills to express their meaning clearly.
- They (individuals) may not have the relevant information or understand it to enable them to make an informed decision. The advocate thereby supports them in presenting the relevant information in an accessible way and empowers them to make their decision or to express their wishes and desires.
- Their families may disagree with the individual’s views and want to pressure the person. An advocate can support such individual.
- Where an individual has no family or friends, an advocate can support them through complex decision-making processes regarding themselves or a particular situation.
At Secareserve, we provide the following forms of Advocacy:
Self-Advocacy (informal approach). We incorporate Advocacy in our day-to-day delivery of service to individuals.Our staff support individuals to refine their skills and provide relevant information or signpost them to groups to speak for themselves.
Professional Advocacy (formal approach): We work in partnership with the individual to express their wishes and views. To promote their voice. The value of professional Advocacy is seen as increasingly valuable in a range of health and social care settings, from services and staff teams. We provide independent Advocacy in all capacities.
How do I get support from a Community Advocate?
If you want support from an advocate, you can be referred to us by a health or care service professional. In some areas, a carer or family member can also make a referral, or you can contact us yourself.
