Different Flavours of Advocacy

Not all advocacy services are the same; they can differ based on your unique circumstances and needs.

Community-Based Support

This is advocacy that isn't legally mandated. It’s like having a mate who's got your back when you're navigating life’s ups and downs. See our section on how an advocate can assist you for real-life examples.

Discover more through organisations such as:

• POhWER
• The Advocacy People
• VoiceAbility

Understanding IMCA, IMHA, and Social Care Advocates

Independent Mental Capacity Advocates (IMCA)

IMCAs are specialised advocates who support individuals who lack the capacity to make specific decisions for themselves. This service is crucial under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, primarily when decisions need to be made regarding long-term changes in accommodation or serious medical treatment, and there's no one else (like family or friends) to represent the person's interests.

Independent Mental Health Advocates (IMHA)

IMHAs are dedicated to assisting people who are being treated under the Mental Health Act 1983. Their role is to help patients understand their rights under the Act and participate in decisions about their care and treatment. This includes supporting individuals detained in hospitals or on Community Treatment Orders (CTOs).

Social Care Advocates

Operating under the Care Act 2014 in England and the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 in Wales, Social Care Advocates support individuals in understanding and making decisions about their social care. This includes helping people to assess their care and support needs, participate in care planning, and challenge decisions about their care provision.

Each type of advocacy addresses different needs but shares the common goal of ensuring individuals' voices are heard and their rights respected.

Targeted Advocacy

Some fantastic charities focus on specific groups, offering personalised advocacy services. For instance :

• MindOut champions LGBTQ individuals.
• Santé Refugee Mental Health Access Project aids vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers.
• Shelter and Groundswell focus on housing woes.
• Coram Voice targets young folk in care.

Group Advocacy

Ever thought of teaming up? Group advocacy, also known as collective advocacy, gathers people with similar experiences to amplify their collective voice.

Resources include :

• National charities like National Survivor User Network for Mental Health (NSUN)
• Mind's Infoline

Peer Advocacy

Nothing beats advice from someone who’s been there, done that. Peer advocates are people who've faced mental health challenges and can guide you.

Some places include :

• Bipolar UK: Offers peer support for individuals with bipolar disorder, their families, and their friends.
• Recovery Partners: Peer-led mutual support charity that provides recovery and advocacy-oriented support.
• Heads Above the Waves : Focused on young people struggling with self-harm and depression, offering peer advocacy and support.
• The Survivors Trust : The Survivors Trust is the largest umbrella agency for specialist rape and sexual abuse services in the UK and has been providing infrastructure support to our members for the past 20 years.

Statutory Advocacy

In some cases, you're legally entitled to an advocate. Dive into our statutory advocacy page to learn more.

Find An Advocate

For a roadmap on securing advocacy services locally, hop over to our how-to guide.

Can My Inner Circle Be My Advocates?

Absolutely, as long as it's a mutual decision. Friends and family can be super helpful, but remember that being your advocate brings new dynamics to the relationship. Make sure you're both clear about what the role entails.

They should :

• Listen, not just hear you.
• Help you find information.
• Attend appointments with you.
• Give you a morale boost when you need it.

They shouldn't :

• Make decisions for you without asking.
• Judge your choices.
• Assume they know best for you.

Advocating for Yourself: Is It Possible?

Being your own advocate, known as 'self-advocacy', can be a challenge when you're dealing with mental health issues. But remember, seeking external help doesn't mean you're not capable.

When you're up for it, consider these steps :

• Boost your self-esteem. Check out our tips on increasing self-esteem.
• Prep for appointments. Our talking to your GP guide has some solid pointers.
• Train your self-advocacy skills. Organisations like MindOut offer workshops.
• For more, visit the Disability Rights UK website.