What is advocacy?

Advocacy is about helping disadvantaged people to have their wishes and concerns heard by others. It may mean speaking on somebody's behalf if they are unable to communicate or, alternatively, offering them the support to put forward their opinions more effectively.

Can I be an advocate?

Asist’s Generic Team North, seeks to fully represent the community of North Staffordshire and welcomes volunteer applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures and minority groups; it’s not qualifications that we’re looking for, its life experience, a caring personality and a commitment to supporting disempowered individuals to deal with the world on equal terms.

Do I need formal qualifications?

No. All we expect is that advocates have the confidence to speak up for others and to have awareness that many people are denied a say in their own affairs.
 

What commitment do I have to make?

Be able to commit to volunteering for approximately 6 months (exclusive of unforeseen circumstances) Some people have more time available each week than others. It is possible to be an effective advocate with just a few hours a week to spare.
 

What training and support will I receive?

There is an initial 4 day induction training programme which will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to act as an advocate. Additionally we will regularly provide you with extra training to improve your effectiveness. You will have monthly support/supervision meetings with your Co-ordinator.
 

Will it cost me money?

No. Full expenses are paid for mileage, telephone calls, etc.
 

What are the typical services provided by an advocate?

Advocates may be required to perform a variety of tasks, which could include: -

ü      Gathering information for their advocacy partner so that they can make an informed choice, never being judgemental

ü      Supporting their advocacy partner to write letters

ü      Liaising with and contacting others on behalf of their advocacy partner

ü      Asking questions on behalf of their advocacy partner

ü      Supporting and/or representing their advocacy partner at a meeting

What we expect from a volunteer

 A volunteer advocate should:

• be able to commit themselves to at least 2-3 hours per week once trained. Some flexibility is desirable.
• be willing to undertake a period of induction and preparation to enable them to meet the needs of their partners (approximately 20 hours)
• be willing to partake in an evaluation meeting following training
• support their advocacy partners and voice their needs and wishes as if they were their own
• be willing to work with people from a different cultural or ethnic background, and support Asist's Equal Opportunities Policy
• display an ability to deal confidentially with information relating to their advocacy partners personal lives and be in agreement with Asist's Policy of Confidentiality
• always work to guidelines laid out within Asist’s policies and procedures

Applicants should never have been convicted of any serious criminal offence, be prepared to obtain a police reference (paid for by Asist) and be able to provide character references to confirm their suitability.

If you want to know more or wish to talk to someone about volunteering with Asist please contact:

Lorraine Ingram 01782 845584 email: lorrainei@asist.co.uk