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volunteers |
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.
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do I
need formal qualifications?
No. All we expect is that advocates have
the confidence to speak up for others and to have an awareness that
many people are denied a say in their own affairs.
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what
commitment do I have to make?
We do not make a specific demand on
people's time. Some people have more time available than others. It
is possible to be an effective advocate with just a few hours a week
to spare.
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will I
receive any training?
There is an initial 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.
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will
it cost me money?
No. Full expenses are paid for mileage, telephone calls, etc.
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what
are the typical services provided by an advocate?
Advocates may be required to perform
a variety of tasks, which could include: -
- Gathering information to give
someone an informed choice
- Translating official documents
into something meaningful!
- Supporting someone at a meeting
- Representing their partner at a
meeting
- Writing letters for their partner
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what
we expect from a volunteer
A volunteer advocate
should:
- commit themselves to at least one
hour per week once trained
- be willing to undertake a period
of induction and preparation to enable them to meet the needs of
their partners (approximately 16 hours)
- be willing to partake in an
evaluation meeting following training
- support their partners and voice
their needs and wishes as if they were their own
- act forcefully in respect of their
partners views and wishes
- 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 partners
personal lives and be in agreement with Asist's Policy of
Confidentiality
- have had a varied life experience!
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
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