What is advocacy?
Advocacy makes sure your views are heard and taken seriously. An advocate is independent of services. Advocacy can:
- Help you make informed choices
- Help others understand your point of view
- Make it easier to get information in a way you understand
- Be free and confidential
How an advocate can support you
An advocate can:
- Help you think through your options
- Make your views and wishes clear
- Provide independent information
- Help you understand your rights
- Support you to speak up for yourself
- Speak up on your behalf if you’re unable to do this yourself
When advocacy is available
You can get advocacy:
- During a local authority needs assessment, care and support review, or adult safeguarding process
- If you are detained under the Mental Health Act, on a Community Treatment Order (CTO), or subject to a Guardianship Order
- If you have a complaint about NHS treatment or care
Who provides independent advocacy in Staffordshire?
The statutory advocacy provider for adults is Advocacy Services in Staffordshire (ASIST).
ASIST helps people to have their voices heard and rights respected. The service is free, independent and confidential.
Types of advocacy provided by ASIST
- Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA) – including Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) and Paid Representatives
- Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
- Care Act Advocacy – including Care Act Advocacy in prisons
- Independent Health Complaints Advocacy Service (ICAS)
Not sure which advocacy you need? Contact ASIST and they will advise.
Contact ASIST
- Phone: 01785 246709 or 0300 800 1000
- Email: referrals@asist.co.uk
- Website: ASIST website
Advocacy for children and young people
Specialist advocacy is available for children and young people in Staffordshire:
CGL Staffordshire Advocacy Project
Email: sscrs@cgl.org.uk
Phone: 07809 587007
CGL Staffordshire Independent Visitor Project
Email: ssypp@cgl.org.uk
Phone: 01785 887954 / 07912 120158
Other advocacy services
Some people may prefer or need specialist advocacy. You can search for other local providers on Staffordshire Connects