Someone to speak for you (advocate)

If you find it hard to tell us what support you need, and if you're entitled under the Care Act, we can provide an independent advocate. They can help you express your needs and wishes.

We’ll make sure you have information about, and access to, an independent advocate if:

• you have substantial difficulty being involved in the assessment and support planning process
• there is no appropriate person who is able and willing to assist you

Advocacy is about supporting, enabling, and empowering you to express your views and concerns and helping you access information and services where needed. 

Advocates are independent of the council (they are not council employees) and they can help you get the best result for you.

Independent Care Act Advocacy (ICAA) advocates can help people who are eligible to engage and participate in assessments that can decide their level of care and support. 

This could include any needs assessment, care plans, safeguarding enquiries and appeals about a local authorities decision under the Care Act.

Support available

You can contact Citizens Advice and Southwark Carers to ask for advice and support.

If you need someone to speak for you (advocate), you can contact:

The Advocacy People

The Advocacy People are an independent advocacy provider with specialist expertise in matters covered by the Care Act. 

We commission The Advocacy People to provide services to residents. You can contact them for advice and support:

• The Advocacy People, PO Box 375, Hastings, TN34 9HU
• Telephone: 0330 440 9000
• Email: www.theadvocacypeople.org.uk