Independent Advocacy

Advocacy is something we all do for ourselves or for others on a daily basis.  Independent advocacy is something we may all need at some time in our lives.

What is Independent Advocacy?

It is:
  • support in speaking up about issues that concern you
  • being enabled to speak up for yourself by being given information and support
  • having someone speak up for you in order to protect your rights and interests when you are unable, for whatever reason, to do this for yourself

Tell me about the Independent Advocate

The advocate is not there to judge you or your situation.  They are there to ensure that your voice is heard and that your views are taken into account.  Independent advocates can also speak up for you when you cannot do this for yourself so that your rights are protected.

The advocacy organisations in Tayside are all different so there may be a choice depending on your need and where you live.

Independent advocates are all different - some are paid, some are not, but they are all supported by the organisations that recruited them.

Advocacy can also happen with groups of people who get together to help services to improve and who have similar issues and ideas that they want to put across to these services.

There are also self-advocacy groups where you can learn to speak up for yourself with the support of other people who are learning to do the same.  There is often someone who is independent who will help the group.

People may need Independent Advocates for all sorts of issues and situations including:

Health, social work, housing, education and family issues.

Why you may need an Independent Advocate

  • You might find it difficult to express your views and wishes
  • People may not be listening to your views and wishes
  • You are unable to communicate your views and wishes owing to an illness or other condition
  • You need someone on your side who can help your voice to be heard on an equal basis with the people involved in your care and support

What can Independent Advocacy do for you?

  • Support you to make sure your views are listened to
  • Find information to help you make choices
  • Support you to prepare for meetings and to attend those meetings with you
  • Support you to write letters
  • Support you to make phone calls
  • Build confidence
  • Inform you on your rights and responsibilities

If you would like support from independent advocacy or further information, please contact one of the following:

Advocating Together (Dundee) SCIO
Telephone: 01382 666601
Website: www.advocating-together.org.uk

Angus Independent Advocacy
Telephone: 01241 434413
Website: www.angusindadvocacy.org

Dundee Independent Advocacy Support
Telephone: 01382 205515
Website: www.diasdundee.org

Independent Advocacy Perth and Kinross
Telephone: 01738 587887
Website: www.iapk.org.uk

Partners in Advocacy
Telephone: 01382 217186
dundee@partnersinadvocacy.org.uk
Website: www.partnersinadvocacy.org.uk
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