Hello DebbieC,
I don’t know if you are aware, but Mencap have a page about advocacy and contact details, here: https://www.mencap.org.uk/advice-and-support/services-you-can-count/advocacy
Mind.org.uk also have some information that you may find useful: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/advocacy/finding-an-advocate/#.Wlus_IdjCUk
It is also worth checking The Social Care Institute of Excellence at: https://www.scie.org.uk
From experience, I have found provided advocates to vary greatly in knowledge, commitment and obligation.
Of three advocates and RPR’s provided by www.onside-advocacy.org.uk to my vulnerable brother, only one, given as a care act advocate, had my brother’s best interests at the core of their duty. The other two as RPR’s, I found to be negligent and prejudice, lacking the ability to communicate with my brother and having the provider as the priority rather than the wishes and needs of my vulnerable brother.
When I challenged the negligence of the first RPR, the CEO of onside-advocacy.org.uk blocked communication, and to date does not allow contact with staff, regardless of their obligation to consult with me as an interested party in the health and wellbeing of my brother.
I also took the matter to their trustees and met with the chair who defended the negligent advocate. Later I discovered the trustee had in the past been forced to retire from the police force due to breaches of trust and authority regarding the force’s code of conduct, and sexual harassment of a colleague.
As un-believable as it sounds, I can provide evidence of my claims. In my opinion is not acceptable to have such a person as a trustee for a charity that deals with vulnerable people.
I don’t believe all advocacy services are as poor and discriminatory but would advise caution and suggest researching in detail those that you find. I hope that if you decide to get an advocate for your sister that they are committed to her best interests and their legal obligations.
Please share the website and blog detailing the inadequate care and support provided to my vulnerable autistic brother by Herefordshire Council and The Priory Group. Thank you.
