The purpose of advocacy is to give a voice to people in vulnerable situations who may not otherwise have their rights and wishes respected.

Advocacy can ensure that vulnerable people are able to get their voices heard, assert their rights and be supported to be as fully involved in services that affect them.

An advocate can:

  • listen to you;
  • obtain information for you, or put you in touch with someone who can;
  • investigate other sources of support;
  • find out what your rights are;
  • help you to plan any action you may need or wish to take;
  • spend time with you preparing for meetings;
  • attend meetings with you;
  • help you to put across your viewpoint to others; and
  • liaise with relevant agencies on your behalf.

There are a number of different types of advocacy to find out what these are please use either the arrows or click on the various tabs.

Last reviewed: 28/04/2015