Author Archives: Kim Walsh

  1. A Patron’s Visit: Witnessing the Impact of Advocacy Focus

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    A message from our patron, Jake Mills.

    We often hear about the great work that Advocacy Focus does, but nothing compares to seeing it in action firsthand. Recently, I had the privilege of spending some time with the incredible team at Advocacy Focus, and I wanted to share my experience with you.

    From the moment I arrived, I was deeply moved by the genuine care and passion of the people I met. It’s clear that Advocacy Focus isn’t just a job for its team – it’s a calling. Every person I spoke with radiated a sense of purpose, compassion, and dedication to making a real difference in the lives of those they support.

    Seeing the positive impact Advocacy Focus has on its people and the communities it serves has only deepened my pride in being a Patron.

    One of the highlights of my visit was spending a day at the Community Hub. While the day wasn’t particularly busy, you could feel the relief and gratitude in the air as people spoke with the team who were providing support. The approach was all about working together with those they helped, making sure each person understood the steps in the process, and respecting their choices along the way. The teamwork was seamless, with everyone supporting each other with a calm and steady presence. It was a beautiful example of how collaboration can create the best solutions.

    I also had the chance to chat with someone about the challenges of managing volunteers. What struck me the most was their refreshing attitude. Despite the difficulties that come with recruiting and retaining volunteers, they remained positive, adaptable, and full of determination.

    On the second day, I spent time with a team member at a hospital ward. If you want to see passion for the job, they are the person to watch. They approached everything with professionalism, thoroughness, and, most importantly, kindness. Watching them advocate for each patient with such dedication and care was nothing short of inspiring. Even in tough situations, they remained calm and focused on what was best for the people they were helping. It was clear that they genuinely care about the people they work with, and it was an honour to see them in action.

    Lastly, I spent time with another member of the team during a couple of home visits. They are a true professional who approaches every situation with empathy and expertise. Their ability to navigate difficult conversations and their deep care for the people they advocate for truly stood out. It was a privilege to see how their work makes a tangible difference in people’s lives.

    What really stood out to me during my time with the team was how much everyone spoke so highly of their work environment. I asked the people about their experiences, how they felt supported, and whether they had the resources to grow both professionally and emotionally. Without exception, everyone expressed how proud they were to work for Advocacy Focus. They felt cared for, appreciated, and supported – a testament to the incredible leadership provided. Seeing the positive impact Advocacy Focus has on its people and the communities it serves has only deepened my pride in being a Patron. I am in awe of the dedication and heart I saw during my time there, and I am incredibly grateful to be part of such an amazing organisation.

  2. Christmas & New Year Closure

    Comments Off on Christmas & New Year Closure

    We will be closing for Christmas & New Year from 4pm on Tuesday 24th December and we’ll be back at 9am on Thursday 2nd January 2025.

    We recognise that people will still need support and help, so we’ve put together a list of services and resources that are available to you. We hope you have a safe and lovely Christmas, and wish everyone a happy New Year.

    (Click on the names below to visit the services website.)

    Hub of Hope

    A simple and essential resource! Just type in your postcode or address, and Hub of Hope will list all the services that are available to you in your local area.

    BEAT – 0800 801 0677

    Charity that helps support people living with eating disorders. They also equip family and friends with essential skills and advice to help their loved ones recover, whilst also looking after their own mental health.

    Papyrus – 0800 068 4141 or text 07860 039967

    PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide) is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people.

    The Samaritans – 116 123

    The Samaritans have a confidential helpline that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which is free to phone. They are available for anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure.

    SHOUT – Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258

    24/7 crisis support across the UK. Text ‘SHOUT’ if you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support.

    YoungMinds – Text ‘YM’ to 85258 for urgent help

    Text the YoungMinds Crisis Messenger for free 24/7 support across the UK if you are experiencing a mental health crisis.

    Childline – 0800 1111

    Childline is here to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. You can talk about anything. Whether it’s something big or small, our trained counsellors are here to support you. Childline is free, confidential and available any time, day or night.

    The Silver Line – 0800 4 70 80 90

    A free, confidential helpline dedicated to helping older people, who may be feeling isolated, confused, or lonely. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

    The Cruse National Helpline – 0808 808 1677

    Offering a listening ear and emotional support to anyone who has lost someone they love, or been affected by bereavement. All calls are answered by trained Cruse volunteers. View their open times on their website.

  3. Fashion Fundraiser raises £1,642 for charities Advocacy Focus and Lancashire Women

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    On Wednesday 16th October, Advocacy Focus held an amazing Fashion Fundraiser with Lancashire Women!

    The event took place at the beautiful Mitton Hall, and it was a night full of fashion, fun, and community spirit. Guests watched a fabulous fashion show from Willow Tree Boutique, shopped at local stalls, and donated to our “Gift of Glam” appeal. A stall full of preloved items with a call to recycle and reuse whilst raising vital funds.

    Together, we raised an incredible £1,642! This money will be shared equally between Lancashire Women and Advocacy Focus and will provide local services for local people.

    Special Thank You To Our Supporters

    • Our amazing sponsor, PM+M, for supporting this event from the start.
    • Lancashire Women, for being with us on this journey and helping to make a difference.
    • The 10 incredible local businesses that had stalls at our event – you helped make it happen!
    • Our fantastic team, for your hard work and creativity.
    • And of course, our wonderful attendees and fashionistas! Your support and energy made the night truly special and will help us continue the important work our charities do.

    Your Support, Our Impact:

    Thanks to fundraising, our work helps create real change across Lancashire:

    7,000+ people received important advocacy services this year, helping them speak up and be listened to in important decisions.

    236 people have been supported through our Burnley Community Focus Hub, making sure local people can access vital resources.

    151 people have been connected with essential services and support networks through our Community Focus Hub for help with health, housing, and social care.

    52 hours of community support is provided every month.

    Together, we are building stronger, more resilient communities and ensuring that everyone is listened to and heard. Thank you for standing with us!

    Support the Work We Do

    We are so grateful for the support we have had for this event, and we welcome anyone who would like to continue to help us. If you would like to support our work, the JustGiving pages for both our charities are included below:

    Advocacy Focus JustGiving page.

    Lancashire Women JustGiving page.

    Looking to #BoostYourBusiness?

    We would love to discuss how Advocacy Focus can become your chosen charity. This could be through a one-time fundraising campaign or as your ‘charity of the year.’ Read about how CUBE HR chose us as their ‘charity of the year’ for 2024.

    In return for your support, we can create a special corporate and social responsibility package that will benefit both your team and your business whilst helping local people.

    Email: marketing@advocacyfocus.org.uk

  4. Advocacy Focus and Lancashire Women Join Forces for Fashion Fundraiser

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    Lancashire-based charities, Advocacy Focus and Lancashire Women, are teaming up to host their first joint Fashion Fundraiser on Wednesday 16th October at Mitton Hall Hotel in Clitheroe.

    The evening promises a stylish celebration, with a runway show by Willow Tree Boutique, stalls from local businesses, and a charitable twist—attendees will be encouraged to purchase pre-loved clothing donated to the charities ahead of the event.

    The event aims to raise crucial funds to support both charities’ missions, which focus on advocacy, empowerment, and support services for people across Lancashire who need help during challenging times. Proceeds will directly aid services like mental health advocacy, women’s support, and family services in the community.

    Doors open at 6:30 pm, with a glass of Prosecco on arrival, kindly sponsored by local firm PM+M, adding an extra touch of glamour to the evening. A raffle with prizes donated by local businesses will also take place, with all funds raised shared equally between the two charities to enhance their local services for local people.

    Tickets are £10 and are available through TryBooking. This is a unique opportunity to combine a passion for fashion with a chance to give back and support vital community initiatives. Early booking is advised as spaces are limited.

    To book tickets, visit the TryBooking page: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/64294

  5. Advocacy Focus Named overall ‘Top Employer’ in Mind’s Workplace Wellbeing Index for Third Consecutive Year

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    Advocacy Focus was named as overall ‘Top Employer’ in Mind’s Workplace Wellbeing Index for the third year running. Mind’s Workplace Wellbeing Index is an annual benchmark of best policy and practice when it comes to staff mental health. The index ranks organisations based on their commitment to, and initiatives around mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

    Advocacy Focus CEO, Justine Forster, had this to say about the achievement:

    “Ten years ago, our charity began its wellbeing journey, placing its people at the heart of everything we do. With that approach we have created a supportive and trusting workplace that gives our team the freedom to carry out their challenging roles flexibility and to the best of their ability. If you support and equip your people to be the best version of themselves, they in turn will deliver top quality services that can achieve the best possible outcomes for the people we advocate for.

    This is the fourth year that Advocacy Focus has taken part in the Workplace Wellbeing Index, and they have achieved Gold Award status each time. The Gold Award is only given to employers who have embedded mental health into their policies and practice and who have shown a long-term, in-depth commitment to their team’s mental health. The Index highlighted the tremendous efforts of the Advocacy Focus team and the culture they have created and how they have helped to shape and foster a safe and positive workplace. The resilience and dedication of the charity’s people is what makes the organisation an exemplary place to work.

    Looking Ahead

    Justine continues, “As we celebrate this milestone, of which we are both humbled and proud, we remain focused on future wellbeing initiatives for our team. As a charity we have shown that you don’t need big budgets or significant resources to drive forward positive change for your people. We are a team of almost 80 people covering the North of England, and we are leading the way when it comes to workplace wellness. Huge thanks and recognition to our incredible team and to everyone who has supported or championed us on this journey. We are immensely proud to be three-time winners of this remarkable award, and we look forward to furthering our charity’s mission of ‘advocacy for all’ with wellbeing at its core.”

  6. CUBE HR Surpasses Fundraising Goal, Raising Over £2,100 for Advocacy Focus 

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    Earlier this month, the team at CUBE HR exceeded their fundraising goal by more than double when they took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in order to raise vital funds for Advocacy Focus.

    During this challenge, they walked 24.5 miles, climbed 5,000 feet, and took around 55,000 steps – finishing it in 8 hours 57 minutes. 

    “We love a challenge and most of us love walking, so we thought why not combine them” said Lisa Sourbutts, Managing Director at CUBE HR. “I think we underestimated how challenging it would be. We completed the first 2 peaks relatively easily but one of the team ended up with blisters on the soles of her feet. However, she would not give up so we took the 3rd peak (Ingleborough) quite slowly. That said we’re told under 9 hours is a phenomenal time so we’ll take it. The celebratory pint at the end didn’t touch the sides. We were sore and tired but when we checked the total we had raised we were delighted. Thanks so much to our generous supporters” 

    In April, it was announced that CUBE HR had chosen Advocacy Focus as their charity of the year, choosing to dedicate their fundraising efforts to support Advocacy Focus in providing valuable advocacy services across Lancashire.  

    “We are honoured to have been chosen as CUBE HR’s charity of the year, and what a fantastic way to kickstart their fundraising! The Yorkshire Three Peaks is no mean feat, but every step they took was a step towards making sure that local people get the advocacy support they deserve for their care and treatment needs. Huge thanks to Team Cube. You are all amazing!” says Justine Forster, CEO at Advocacy Focus.

    CUBE HR is a leading provider of human resources solutions, offering a range of services designed to empower businesses to manage their workforce effectively. With a focus on innovation and excellence, CUBE HR partners with organisations to deliver tailored HR solutions that drive success. 

    Are you a business looking to work with a local charity? 

    We would be happy to talk to you about Advocacy Focus becoming your nominated charity, either via a ‘one-off’ fundraising campaign or, like CUBE HR, as your ‘Charity of the Year.’ 

    Advocacy Focus would be keen to meet you and to talk more about how we can work in partnership to extend the reach of our advocacy support, so that no one falls through the gaps because of overstretched services. 

    We can develop a tailored corporate and social responsibility support package in return for your help, which will benefit your team and business, whilst supporting the local community. 

    If you would like to discuss this further, please email marketing@advocacyfocus.org.uk. 

  7. Volunteer Spotlight: Angela, An Amazing Independent Visitor

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    This Volunteers’ Week, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on Angela, who became an Independent Visitor in June 2023.

    Angela has shown amazing dedication and creativity. Her visits have been wonderful experiences for the young person she helps, with fun activities like candle-making workshops, attending shows, and sharing coffee and cake. Angela always goes the extra mile to create fun and meaningful moments.

    Angela was matched with Annabel, a young girl who had recently come to the UK after escaping the war in Sudan. Because of the conflict, Annabel hasn’t been able to talk to her family and is worried about her mum and siblings. Angela’s ability to speak several languages and her experience teaching English helped Annabel feel more at ease.

    Angela and Annabel share interests in art, crafts, and reading. Angela found easy-read books for Annabel and gave her two at a time, helping her enjoy reading and learning. Despite the language barrier, they quickly formed a strong bond. Angela’s language skills and their shared hobbies helped them connect deeply.

    Angela noticed changes in Annabel’s mood, which was understandable given her situation. She continued her visits, offering a listening ear and engaging Annabel in activities to cheer her up and help her focus. Angela’s dedication to Annabel’s well-being and her adjustment to the community has been truly inspiring.

    Annabel’s Journey with Angela

    Angela has been a constant support for Annabel, helping her feel more confident and comfortable in the UK. Annabel has learned new skills, like making art, practising English, and using public transport. Together, they have visited many places like Liverpool Cathedral, Manchester City, Rainhill, and Prescot. They have also joined community groups like Shakespeare North Theatre, ‘Everyday Art’ at Wigan Old Courts, ‘The Happy Place’ women’s group in Wigan, and Liverpool’s ‘Merseymade’ workshops.

    Annabel often texts Angela after their meetings to thank her and share her enjoyment. She loves choosing from the activities Angela suggests and looks forward to the next set of easy-read books.

    Angela’s View on Volunteering

    Angela encourages others to consider volunteering as an independent visitor, saying, “One of the best things I did in 2023 was working with Annabel. Despite the challenges, it’s been a joy – very rewarding and life-affirming. I hope to continue in the role for a long time and hope Annabel achieves her goals and dreams.”

    Angela’s words capture the essence of being an Independent Visitor:

    “It’s very rewarding to be an IV looking out for a young person; I think the independent, voluntary nature of the role makes you more approachable. For me, the role is like being both a friendly advisor and a caring auntie.”

    We are incredibly grateful for Angela’s dedication and the positive impact she has made in Annabel’s life. Her story inspires us all to see the difference one person can make through empathy, creativity, and genuine care for our next generation.

  8. Helping Max

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    Salford Children and Young People

    What was the person’s situation before working with Advocacy Focus? 

    Max is a 19 year old male who is a care leaver, living out of area. Max has additional needs and struggles to retain information. He has been homeless and needed an advocate for support around housing and his rights as a care leaver.

    What did the Independent Advocate do to help the person?

    The advocate built a trusting relationship with Max enabling him to share his past experiences and what he finds hard. He recognised that he was unable to retain information and keep up with the decisions that had been made for him. The advocate with permission spoke to professionals involved and asked if all their updates could be shared vie email in one chain, so that Max could follow and review at any time.

    When Max became homeless the advocate ensured that the relevant professionals were informed, and Max felt safe and secure until a place was found for him. The advocate ensured information was passed correctly between Max and his social worker. Max was told that he could have a free gym pass, but because he was living outside of Salford, the Council were reluctant to give it to him. After a few telephone conversations Max has now got a free gym pass for local gyms.

    What was the outcome?

    Max understands and can see all information in relation to his life. He is gaining confidence when speaking to professionals and has attended some organisations on his own. He now attends the gym for free, which benefits his mental wellbeing. The case is still ongoing, with Max still waiting for a permanent place to live. The advocate will continue to work with Max until he decides he no longer needs an advocate.

    Why was advocacy support so effective?

    Without an advocate Max would not know some of his care leavers rights. Information would not have been shared in a way that he understood, therefore, Max would still feel that he had not been listened to. Max knows that he is being supported by a trusted person. The relationship between Max and his social worker has improved as he feels that actions have been taken for things he has waited for.

    *Names have been changed to protect the identity of the people we support

  9. A Day at Westminster

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    By Jason Cherry, Advocacy Co-Ordinator at Advocacy Focus

    In March I had the amazing opportunity to join Sara Britcliffe, MP for Hyndburn, in Westminster. A very early start but well worth it.

    I arrived in London and after visiting all the usual tourist attractions, I went to meet Sara and her team at Westminster. Here, I had a tour of Westminster Hall, The House of Commons, where I stood, where the PM stands and The Houses of Parliament. I even went into The Chapel of St Mary’s where Emily Davison hid (Google her…. girl power before the Spice Girls!). What a beautiful hidden church and on set days they hold services there.

    Westminster Hall is steeped in history. The most recent is a plaque of where Queen Elizabeth II lay in state, not to mention plaques for where Nelson Mandella and Winston Churchill stood.

    I was lucky enough to take part in a Question-and-Answer session held in one of the committee rooms off Westminster Hall, I even saw Jeremy Corbyn!

    I finished on The Terrace with Sara and her lovely team, where I took the opportunity to have a photo.

    What a fantastic day and a fabulous experience.

    Thank you to Sara and her team for an unforgettable trip.

    Thank you to Advocacy Focus for believing in me and for being a very inclusive place to work.

  10. CUBE HR announces Advocacy Focus as ‘Charity of the Year’ and launches £1,000 fundraiser goal

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    Advocacy Focus is thrilled to announce that CUBE HR has picked us as their charity of the year for 2024.

    CUBE HR is a leading provider of human resources solutions, offering a range of services designed to empower businesses to manage their workforce effectively. With a focus on innovation and excellence, CUBE HR partners with organisations to deliver tailored HR solutions that drive success.

    “We are delighted to partner with Advocacy Focus as our charity of the year,” said Stuart Wright, HR Consultant at CUBE HR. “As a small business, we think it is important to give something back to our community, so we choose a local ‘charity of the year’ each year. We love the work that Advocacy Focus does and want to help in some way, to make sure this work continues.”

    To kickstart the partnership, CUBE HR has launched a fundraiser to take place on Monday 3rd June 2024 in which employees from both CUBE HR and Advocacy Focus will be taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks. This walk is not just a physical challenge, but a real chance to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

    Donations to this fundraiser can be made through the JustGiving page. All funds will go towards ensuring Advocacy Focus can continue to provide advocacy services to people within the community. Every donation counts, no matter how big or small.

    “We are so grateful to CUBE HR for choosing us as their charity of the year,” said Justine Forster, CEO at Advocacy Focus. “This fundraiser will make such a difference to the lives of people we support and help us to continue our vital community advocacy work. Every donation we receive will go straight into our services and will support people that need our help when it comes to their health and social care needs.”

    CUBE HR has invited people and businesses alike to join them in supporting Advocacy Focus by taking part in their fundraising efforts throughout 2024. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

    Are you a business looking to work with a local charity?

    We would be happy to talk to you about Advocacy Focus becoming your nominated charity, either via a ‘one-off’ fundraising campaign or, like CUBE HR, as your ‘Charity of the Year.’

    Advocacy Focus would be keen to meet you and to talk more about how we can work in partnership to extend the reach of our advocacy support, so that no one falls through the gaps because of overstretched services.

    We can develop a tailored corporate and social responsibility support package in return for your help, which will benefit your team and business, whilst supporting the local community.

    If you would like to discuss this further, please email marketing@advocacyfocus.org.uk.

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