Advocacy is speaking up for, or acting on behalf of someone.

Advocacy can help people to:

• make clear their own views and wishes;
• express and present their views effectively and faithfully;
• obtain independent advice and accurate information;
• negotiate and resolve conflict.

Some people may find it hard to speak up for themselves. Advocacy can enable people to take more responsibility and control for the decisions which affect their lives.

Advocacy should help people to make informed choices. An advocate must ensure the individual is making real choices based on good quality information.
They should represent the views and wishes of the person they are working with accurately and effectively.

The advocacy relationship will last for as long as both parties agree. The advocate will seek permission in writing from the person they are working with to contact agencies on their behalf. They will respect the right to confidentiality.