Advocacy
Having someone to speak on your behalf is often called 'advocacy'.
Advocacy means having someone – called an 'advocate' – who will:
- share your views and say what you want
- speak up for your rights
- represent what's best for you
It can help people make informed choices and decisions about their care – especially:
- people with physical or learning disabilities
- people with mental health needs
- people who have difficulty understanding and remembering information
- older people
Advocacy is completely independent from organisations that provide social care services.
It helps you get information about services and think about choices you can make.
Advocates act only in the interests of the person for whom they speak. They do not take their own view of what's best, or try to influence the person to make a different choice.
The are different types of advocacy. Find out about independent advocacy services in Thurrock.