Advocacy - someone to speak for you

Free, confidential help from someone who will speak on your behalf when you need to make your wishes heard.

An advocate is there to:

• help you talk to people and ask questions
• support you to have your say
• make sure you have the information you need to make the right choices for you
• go to meetings with you
• support you if you have problems with your bank, benefits, GP, the NHS, appointments etc.
• make telephone calls and write letters for you

An advocate will not:

• tell you what to do
• talk to people about your situation ‘behind your back’
• translate languages for you

An advocate can help all these people:

• people with learning disabilities
• older people
• people with mental ill-health
• people with sensory impairment
• people with physical disabilities
• people with autism
• people who have experienced discrimination or exclusion

Can I have an advocate with me to discuss my care and support needs?

Yes. If at any time you feel that you need help to make sure your needs and wishes are heard when you speak to us, there are organisations that can provide advocates to speak for you.

If you are having substantial difficulties, then we can arrange an advocate for you.

I’m a carer, can I have an advocate?

Yes. As a carer, you can still have an advocate. If you need help to get your feelings or views across at an assessment or appointment, you can have someone with you to advocate on your behalf.

Advocacy in Luton