However, there are some people who are isolated and vulnerable and who cannot articulate their wishes and interests. Advocacy is about providing independent support and representation to those who cannot effectively represent themselves. It aims to provide a pool of independent, volunteer advocates to work on a short-term basis with clients. Advocates are local volunteers. This is not a befriending service or replacement relative service.
Advocates actively represent their clients' needs and opinions.
Advocates are subject to a strict rule of confidentiality , but the Advocacy Office will monitor all partnerships to offer support to advocates and to evaluate the quality of the service. All referrals must go through the Advocacy Office. Priority will be given to clients who have no supportive family or friends locally or to emergency cases. Clients do not pay for advocates. Initially the Co-ordinator will meet the client and then try to find a suitable advocate.