Advocacy - someone to speak up for you
Sometimes, you might feel like health and social care workers aren't listening to you, or you can't express your thoughts clearly.
An advocate is someone who helps you make sure your opinions and rights are respected. They ensure you're treated fairly, your worries are heard, and you have control over important decisions in your life. They can assist you in speaking up during meetings, handling tough issues, and understanding key decisions. Advocates are trained professionals who are fair and unbiased, and their service is private and independent.
Advocates can help you:
- access information and services
- be involved in decisions about your life
- explore choices and options
- defend and promote your rights and responsibilities
- speak out about issues that matter to you.
Some advocacy services you can arrange yourself by contacting local advocacy providers direct. If you are unsure about your right to have an advocate, contact a local advocacy provider using the Kent Advocacy website.
Kent advocacy
Kent Advocacy is a group of four organizations that provide different services across Kent. They work together under the same name but are independent of the NHS and Kent County Council.
Kent Advocacy offers independent, professional support for various situations. You can contact them to get help or make a referral.