Advocates make sure you're heard. For example, they can help you:
- understand the care and support process
- talk about how you feel about your care
- make decisions
- challenge decisions about your care and support if you do not agree with them
- stand up for your rights
They can write letters for you and attend meetings with you.
Advocates can support you during:
- assessments
- treatment, care and support planning
- safeguarding and reviews
- appealing decisions or making complaints
Advocates are independent of social services and the NHS.
How your local council can help
Your local council has to provide an advocate if you do not have family or friends who can help or support you, and you have difficulty:
- understanding and remembering information
- communicating your views
- understanding the pros and cons of different options
Anyone who might benefit from having an advocate should be offered information about how it could help, what support is available and how to access advocacy services, even if they are not legally entitled to one.
A paid carer cannot act as an advocate for you.
How to get an advocate
Contact social care services at your local council and ask about advocacy services. Find your local social care services.
You can also refer yourself to an independent advocacy organisation
POhWER is a charity that helps people to be involved in decisions being made about their care. Call POhWER's support centre on 0300 456 2370 for advice.
The Advocacy People gives advocacy support. Use The Advocacy People's online form or call 0330 440 9000 for advice.
VoiceAbility gives advocacy support. Call their helpline on 0300 303 1660 for advice or use VoiceAbility's online referral form.
Contact your local Age UK to see if they have advocates in your area. Visit Age UK online or call 0800 055 6112.