Advocacy support for Carers
Advocacy can be very helpful for carers in many ways. It supports carers to understand services, find the right help, and make sure they and the people they care for are treated fairly and with respect. An advocate can speak up with you or on your behalf, helping you feel heard and understood. Advocacy can help by:
- Ensuring carers’ voices are heard
- Supporting you to access services and support
- Protecting rights and promoting fair treatment
- Emotional empowerment and confidence
Statutory Advocacy
You may be entitled to have a statutory advocate support you with your carer’s assessment. A statutory advocate helps you understand information linked to your carer’s assessment and supports you to protect your rights and makes sure your voice is heard. You are entitled to an advocate if:
- Without the support you would have substantial difficulty being involved in the process
- There is no one else appropriate, able or willing to support you
Bradford’s statutory advocacy service is provided by VoiceAbility. To access this service, you need a referral from a professional. Speak to your social care worker if you feel you would benefit from an advocate’s support whilst having a carer’s assessment.
General Advocacy
Unlike statutory advocacy, general advocacy is available more broadly and can support carers who need help speaking up, understanding their options, or challenging unfair treatment. This can be provided by professionals or peers who have lived experience of being a carer.
There are different organisations that can help carers access general advocacy:
Equality Together
Equality Together hosts several user groups and forums. You can come to these groups and meet other people who also want their voice to be heard. 1-2-1 peer support is also available.
Telephone: 01274594173
Email: enquiry@equalitytogether.org.uk
Website: Equality Together website
Carers' Resource
Carers' Resource host different groups across the district which help carers receive peer support and help from carers resource professionals.
Telephone: 0808 5015939
Website: Groups and Events - Carers' Resource