You can ask someone to help you if you don't feel like you can speak for yourself, or find it hard to understand things. This is known as advocacy.
Who is an advocate?
An advocate is independent of social services and the NHS and they are not part of your family or one of your friends. They act only according to your wishes and don't try to influence you to make a different choice.
What does an advocate do?
An advocate can:
- Help you to express your views and wishes, secure your rights and represent your interests.
- Put your case forward when you need it and make sure the correct procedures are followed by your health and social care service.
- Help you access the information you need.
- Go with you to meetings or interviews in a supportive role.
- Write letters on your behalf or speak for you if you don't feel you can speak for yourself.
Who can get an advocate?
You can get an advocate if:
- You're over the age of 18.
- You struggle to make decisions about the care you need.
- You feel like you need help talking about your care.
How can I get an advocate?
We don't provide advocacy services but we must consult with an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) when making decisions for a person who lacks mental capacity.
There are local organisations you can contact to request an independent advocate or to get support with advocating for yourself: