Advocacy

If you find it difficult to understand your care and support or find it hard to speak up, there are people who can act as a spokesperson for you. They make sure you're heard, and they are called advocates.

Advocates help people and carers to:

speak up for themselves
get their voice heard
understand their rights
find and understand information
make decisions about what they need
tell people like family, social workers and doctors what they want

The Council and the NHS must involve people in decisions made about them, their care, and their support. People need to understand their rights, their options, and how to make their own decisions. Some people have family and friends who can help them speak up for themselves. Others may need an independent advocate. An independent advocate has had specialist training to make sure they do a good job.

Who can help me?

Advocacy Services for People in Plymouth is delivered by The Advocacy People with the Plymouth Highbury Trust and Royal Association for Deaf People.

For advocacy support, call 0330 440 9000

The Advocacy People have developed a suite of easy read resources about advocacy and the help they offer, which can be downloaded by people and other organisations such as care homes, home care providers, and day services to share.

View an A to Z Directory of advocacy-related groups and organisations

Frequently asked questions

What is advocacy?

Advocacy is a supportive service aimed at helping people navigate complex systems and ensuring their voice is heard. It involves trained advocates who stand by your side, offering assistance when dealing with public services, such as healthcare or social services. Advocates work to champion your rights and ensure fair treatment.

Who can benefit from advocacy services?

Anyone in Plymouth facing challenges in dealing with public services or feeling overwhelmed by complex decisions can benefit from advocacy. Whether you're dealing with health issues, social services, or other areas, advocates are here to support you in making informed choices.

How can I access advocacy services?

Accessing advocacy services in Plymouth is easy. You can reach out to local advocacy organisations, your healthcare provider, or social services to inquire about available support. They will guide you through the process and connect you with a trained advocate who fits your needs.

Advocacy Services for People in Plymouth is delivered by The Advocacy People in partnership with the Plymouth Highbury Trust and the Royal Association for Deaf People.

Are advocacy services confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of advocacy. Your personal information and discussions with your advocate are kept private. Advocates prioritise your privacy to build trust and create a safe space for you to express your concerns and needs.

How does advocacy differ from counselling?

While both advocacy and counselling provide support, advocacy focuses on empowering individuals to express their needs and navigate systems effectively. Advocates ensure your voice is heard and rights are protected, while counselling often addresses emotional well-being.

Can advocates assist with legal matters?

Advocates can provide guidance on navigating legal processes and connect you with legal resources. However, they are not lawyers. If you need legal advice, they can help you access appropriate services and support in Plymouth.

Is the information correct?

Let us know if the information on this page is wrong and needs to be updated.

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