What is Advocacy?

Advocacy is the process of supporting and empowering individuals to express their views and concerns, access information and services, defend and promote their rights and responsibilities, and explore choices and options. An advocate stands beside you to amplify your voice when you feel unheard, especially in situations involving mental health challenges where it might be difficult to communicate effectively with healthcare and social care professionals.

What Does an Advocate Do?

An advocate plays a crucial role in supporting and empowering you to make your voice heard, especially when navigating the complexities of mental health care. They stand by your side, ensuring that your rights are respected and your wishes are considered.

Here's what life with an advocate involves :

• Listening and Understanding: They provide a non-judgmental ear for your concerns, ensuring your viewpoints are heard and understood.
• Exploring Options: Advocates help you understand your rights and explore your options, guiding you through the decision-making process without exerting pressure.
• Information and Preparation: They offer valuable information to help you make informed decisions and prepare you for meetings or assessments, ensuring you know what to expect and the questions to ask.
• Communication Support: Whether it's reaching out to professionals on your behalf or accompanying you to appointments, an advocate ensures your points are clearly communicated and addressed.
• Meeting Assistance: In meetings where you might feel overwhelmed, an advocate ensures your voice is heard, your questions are asked, and all necessary points are discussed. They can also help maintain a safe environment, advocating for breaks if things become too stressful.
• Navigating Care Plans: With an advocate, you can ensure that your care plan aligns with your wishes and that any changes in treatment or care are made with your consent.
• Making Complaints: If you have concerns about your treatment or care, an advocate can assist you in raising these issues with the relevant parties.

The Different Types of Advocates

Advocacy comes in various forms, each designed to meet specific needs :

• Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHAs) focus on the rights of people with mental health conditions.
• Independent Mental Capacity Advocates (IMCAs) support individuals who lack the capacity to make certain decisions.
• Social Care Advocates assist in navigating social care processes.
• Peer Advocates use their personal experiences of mental health to support others.

Who Can Be Your Advocate?

Your advocate could be a professional provided through advocacy services, which are independent of healthcare providers, or someone you trust like a friend, family member, or caregiver. The key is that they understand your needs and are committed to acting in your best interest.

Do You Have a Legal Right to an Advocate?

Yes, in certain circumstances, you are legally entitled to advocacy support. This statutory advocacy is available to individuals under specific conditions, such as those detained under the Mental Health Act, lacking mental capacity, or undergoing certain social care assessments.

Finding an Advocate

To find an advocate, you can start by:

• Contacting local mental health charities or advocacy services.
• Asking your healthcare provider or social worker for referrals.
• Visiting websites dedicated to advocacy support to find services in your area.

Remember, the right to advocacy is about ensuring you're supported in making your voice heard, particularly in times when navigating your care and treatment feels overwhelming.