We stand together with advocacy, information & advice charities in calling on the Prime Minister and our government to protect the Human Rights Act
On 18 May 2022 we came together with over 40 advocacy, information and advice charities to send an open letter to the Prime Minister, raising concerns about the proposed scrapping of the Human Rights Act and proposed introduction of the Bill of Rights.
The letter, which can be read in full here, highlighted the importance of the Human Rights Act in ensuring those we work with are treated as equal people and with dignity. The current laws protect everyone in the UK no matter who they are or what their situation may be. The proposed reforms would make it more difficult for our organisation and others on the letter to hold public services accountable.
This was also an opportunity to share the role of advocates in supporting and empowering people to uphold their rights. Here are some of the key things that advocacy services help people to do:
- speak up for themselves or give their views
- understand the process they are going through, their rights and what choices are available to them
- be part of an important decision which is being made about them
- prepare for and take part in meetings and tribunals
- raise queries or concerns
- access information in the format which is most suitable
- access services that can support them.
The Human Rights Act helps to ensure we’re able to carry out these vital services. Thank you to Pohwer who have organised the letter, and to all the organisations that have come together on this important issue.