Independent Care Act Advocacy

The Care Act 2014 is a law about the care and support of adults with needs, and their carers. The main purpose of the Care Act is to promote the wellbeing of individuals and to help people get the outcomes that matter to them in their lives.

We all know how frustrating it can be when people aren’t listening to us. Unfortunately, having a mental health problem can sometimes mean it’s even harder to have your opinions and ideas taken seriously by others. This can be very difficult to deal with, especially when you need to communicate often with health and social care professionals.

 

What is care act advocacy?

Advocacy under the care act means getting support from another person to help you express your views and wishes, and help you stand up for your rights. Someone who helps you in this way is called your advocate.

When advocacy is needed

  • If the person has substantial difficulty in being fully involved in the process
  • There is no one appropriate and available to support and represent their wishes

If these conditions are met, the local authority must refer for Independent Advocacy.

Care Act advocates can be used in the following social settings:

  • Carers Assessments
  • Care Reviews
  • Safeguarding
  • Care and Support Planning
  • Needs Assessment (Including CHC)

How to get an advocate

  • Referrals are from the Local Authority only
  • Advocacy should be considered from the first point of contact, request or referral (including self-referral) and at any subsequent stage of the care and support process

For more information please call 01482 240200 or email [email protected]