Independent Care Act Advocacy (2014) – key statements for you to know:

“All agencies need to know how the services of an advocate can be accessed and what their role is.”  – Care and Support Statutory Guidance, 7.27

“The overall aim should be for people who need advocacy to be identified and, when relevant, receive consistent support as early as possible and throughout the assessment, care and support planning, and review process.” – Care and Support Statutory Guidance, 7.40

In Summary…

Independent Care Act Advocacy (2014) states that some people are legally entitled to have an Independent Advocate to support them to understand and take part in making decisions affecting the care, treatment and support they receive/should be receiving.

Who can have a Care Act Advocate?

You may be entitled to an Independent Advocate to support you through your Health and Social Care Assessments, support plans, reviews or safeguarding enquiries if:

1. You have/may have difficulty being involved in your assessments, and
2. You do not have anybody else suitable to support you

What will a Care Act Advocate do?

Your Advocate will help you speak up and be listened to.

They will meet you in private before making sure that they attend any meetings with you.

Your Advocate will support you to understand your assessment processes and help you make choices and take control over your care, treatment and support.

How do I get a Care Act Advocate?

Referrals for a Care Act Advocate must come from a professional from the Local Authority such as a Social Worker or Care Coordinator, so it’s important that you speak to them and they will sort this out for you.