What do independent advocacy services do?

They try to empower people who need a stronger voice by helping them to express their own needs and make their own decisions. They help people to gain access to information, explore and understand their options, and to make their views and wishes known. They can accompany and support people at important meetings, and help them raise difficult issues. Sometimes they speak up on behalf of people who are unable to do so for themselves. They are always completely independent from the Council and the NHS, although these organisations often contribute to their running costs.

How can I get help from an advocate?

You can usually contact then direct, or you should be able to ask a member of staff in the NHS or a social worker, teacher or youth worker to refer you. You can get help to find an advocate from:

The Citizen’s Advice Bureau
Telephone: 0141 881 2032

Do I have a legal right to an advocate?

The Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) 2003 gives a right to access advocacy to people suffering from mental illness, dementia, learning disability, autism, brain injury/ damage, or personality disorder.

Other people can access advocacy services, but do not have a legal right.

What advocacy services serve East Renfrewshire?

Advocacy Matters offers independent professional advocacy for adults (people aged 16 and over) with mental health problems.
Telephone: 0141 572 2850

Equal Say offers independent citizen advocacy for vulnerable adults from any community care group who are experiencing abuse, neglect or significant isolation.
Telephone: 0141 638 1846

Partners in Advocacy offers independent professional advocacy for children and young people.
Telephone: 0141 847 0036

The Advocacy Project offers independent professional advocacy for older people.
Telephone: 0845 076 2262