What does it do?The Advocacy Service works with older people to ensure that they are able to speak up for themselves and to ensure that their voice is heard. An advocate does not provide advice to older people, but responds to request for action made by an individual older person. This can be through supporting the older person and, where appropriate, representation for them.
What is Advocacy?
The Advocacy Charter defines Advocacy as:
“Taking action to help people achieve what they want, secure their rights, represent their interests and obtain services they need. Advocacypromotes social inclusion, equality and social justice.”
What does an Advocate do?
This depends upon the nature of the problem or situation. The Advocate will discuss your situation with you and together you will agree upon the course of action to be taken. This may include:
- Making telephone calls for you
- Writing letters for you
- Supporting you at meetings or appointments
- Attending meetings and appointments for you in order to represent your views and wishes.
- Providing you with information
- Helping you to complete forms
Independence
The service we provide is independent and able to offer impartial information
Confidentiality
The information we know about you is kept confidential. Nothing learned about a client is revealed to a third party without your explicit permission.
Putting You First
The Advocate will only do what you ask them to do. The Advocate will respect your point of view and preferences, and will not make judgements about your situation.