Helping June

What was June’s situation before working with Advocacy Focus?

June* is 87 years old and had started to experience problems with her memory. She would sometimes become confused when out shopping and, on a few occasions, the police had to bring her home after she got lost.

There was also an incident where she forgot a pan on the stove, which caused a small fire. June sometimes forgot to take her medication and didn’t always remember to eat.

Because of these concerns, June’s family and social worker felt she would be safer living in a care home where staff could support her throughout the day and night. Following an assessment, a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisation was put in place to ensure she stayed in the care home for her safety.

As part of this process, an Independent Advocate was appointed to act as June’s Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR).

However, June was unhappy in the care home. She did not like living in a large home with many people and felt she did not have much freedom.

What did the Independent Advocate do to help June?

The Advocate spent time getting to know June and understanding how she felt about where she was living.

June explained that she did not like the care home and wanted something different. The Advocate supported June to explore alternative options and worked with professionals involved in her care to identify other suitable placements.

To help June make an informed decision, the Advocate used simple explanations and visual aids so she could clearly understand the different options available to her.

What happened in the end?

June chose to move to a smaller care home where only women lived.

With support, she moved into the new home. There, she was able to access the garden whenever she wished, spend time in quieter spaces, and go out to the library and local shops with staff.

June felt much happier in her new home and decided she wanted to stay there.

Why was the advocacy support helpful?

Advocacy ensured that June was listened to and able to express how she felt about her situation.

The Advocate supported June to understand her options and make a choice about where she lived. As a result, June was able to move to a home that better suited her needs and preferences.

Without this support, June may have remained in a care home where she felt unhappy, as she did not know how to ask for a change.

*Name changed to protect the people we support.