A typical case
ADVOCATES STORY
I have been an advocate for seven years. During that time I have advocated on behalf of people from age 8 to 80 years old and from various backgrounds and circumstances. I am currently supporting Adults in the G15 Area of Drumchapel. Most of the partners I am working with have issues related to Mental Health and Addiction.
Advocacy is interesting and challenging, and I am always learning something new. Housing, homelessness, harassment, health and social care needs, access to education and training, domestic violence, abuse, children’s welfare and social isolation are some of the issues partners require support with.
I liaise with professionals from various statutory and voluntary agencies for and on behalf of the partners I support. I attend meetings and appointments with them to ensure their views are heard and their rights are upheld. Many partners gain the confidence to speak up for themselves and as an advocate I encourage them towards self advocacy when ever possible.
Seeing partners and their families gaining more control over important decisions that affect their lives, and looking forward to a more optimistic future is a happy and satisfying aspect of advocacy work.
If you think you could advocate on behalf of another person I would encourage you to take steps to find out more about it. You do not need any particular qualifications. Advocates come from a variety of backgrounds and bring their own particular skills and life experience. However It is necessary to be patient, a good listener, and non judgmental. A sense of humour is also advantageous.
Volunteers at Drumchapel Advocacy project receive training and support. I have found the skills and experience gained through advocacy work to be useful in personal day-to-day life and transferable to work and study environments.
Jackie