Coalition of Disabled People South Devon

THE COALITION

OF DISABLED PEOPLE
SOUTH DEVON

Advocacy

We are sorry that we can no longer provide this service.
If you need help the Disability Information Service might be able to point you in the right direction (see our Links page).

Does this sound familiar?

No one ever listens to my point of view.
I don’t understand why I have been given this medication.
How do I get help from social services?
My partner needs to go into a care home and I don’t know where to start.
There are so many people at the meeting - I feel intimidated.
My child is in care and I am anxious about the meeting I have been asked to attend by social services.
I am not happy with the treatment I have received from hospital and would like help to complain.
I have been sectioned under the Mental Health Act. What are my rights?

These are just a few examples.

What is an advocate?

An advocate is somebody who will:-

Listen to you, makes sure you know your rights and takes your side.
Speak up for you and make sure people hear your views.
Ensure you are treated fairly.

How can an advocate help me?

An advocate can help in situation such as:-

At meetings/support planning, reviews and tribunals.
At appointments - doctors, hospital and solicitors.
During assessments.
On the telephone.
Talking to family or professionals.
Making a complaint.
Signposting to other services.

Will my advocate solve all my problems for me?

We may not be able to solve all your problems, but we will treat you with respect and listen to your concerns. We will support you whilst you work through your difficulties.

What doesn’t an advocate do?

An advocate does not:-

Make decisions for you.
Make judgements about you.
Give advice on benefits, welfare rights and legal matters, although we can offer assistance on signposting you to organisations that specialise in these areas.
Campaign on behalf of groups or individuals.

What about confidentiality?

Our advocacy service offers confidentiality to all people using the service, and unless you want us to share your information we will keep it private. The only exception is if we think you or other people are at risk or if we are ordered by the court to share this information.

How much will support from an advocate cost me?

There are various factors that are taken into account when calculating advocacy costs and in many cases this service may be offered at no charge to you. Contact the Coalition of Disabled People for more details.

If you are interested in finding out more about this service, contact us by phone, email, letter or in person and leave a message for Tony.

Interested in being a volunteer?

If you are interested in supporting people in getting heard, improving services, and enabling people to make choices then please contact us.