Advocacy in all its forms seeks to ensure that people, particularly those who are most vulnerable in society, are able to:
- Have their voice heard on issues that are important to them.
- Defend and safeguard their rights.
- Have their views and wishes genuinely considered when decisions are being made about their lives.
Advocacy is a process of supporting and enabling people to:
- Express their views and concerns.
- Access information and services.
- Defend and promote their rights and responsibilities.
- Explore choices and options
An advocate is someone who provides advocacy support when you need it. An advocate might help you access information you need or go with you to meetings or interviews, in a supportive role. You may want your advocate to write letters on your behalf, or speak for you in situations where you don’t feel able to speak for yourself.
An advocate is independent and will represent your wishes without judging you or giving you their personal opinion. We believe that you are the expert on your life and it is your view of what you wish to happen that our advocates will act upon.
People you know such as friends and family or health or social care staff, can all be supportive and helpful - but it may be difficult for them if you want to do something they disagree with, this is why it is sometimes favourable to have an 'Independent Advocate'.
Please refer to the External Links section of this page, it will redirect you to organisations that provide Advocay related services on WIN.
Please also see the NHS Choices related link on this page for further information.