How do I know which type of advocacy is right for me?
We provide a range of different advocacy services, designed to support people in different situations and at different points in their lives.
Some of our advocacy is free to access, depending on where you live and the type of support you need. We also offer advocacy to people outside these areas, or in situations where free advocacy is not available. In these cases, support may be provided for a fee, helping us to continue our charitable work and reach more people who need a voice.
All of our advocacy is independent, confidential, and centred on what matters to you. The sections below explain the different types of advocacy we offer and who each one is for.
A deeper dive
To find out more about the different types of advocacy we provide, click on the headings below.
Independent Care Act Advocacy (ICAA)
Who it’s for
Independent Care Act Advocacy (ICAA) supports people who are involved in decisions about their care and support and have difficulty being fully involved. You may be entitled to free advocacy if there is no one else who can support you.
How an advocate can help
An advocate can help you understand what is happening, share what matters to you, and be involved in assessments, care planning, reviews, or changes to your support. They can also help you challenge a decision if you do not agree with it.
Cost and access
ICAA is free when you meet the eligibility criteria. If you’re not eligible, you can still contact us to talk through your situation and explore fee-paying advocacy options.
Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA)
Who it’s for
Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA) supports people who lack capacity to make certain decisions and have no one else to represent them. This can include decisions about serious medical treatment or long-term changes to where someone lives.
How an advocate can help
An IMCA advocate gathers information about the person’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, and values. They make sure this information is shared with decision-makers and that the person’s rights are respected.
Cost and access
IMCA advocacy is a statutory service and is free when you are referred by the local authority or NHS. We can help explain how IMCA works and what to expect.
Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) and RPR
Who it’s for
This advocacy supports people who are subject to a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) authorisation in a hospital or care home, and their Relevant Person’s Representatives (RPRs).
How an advocate can help
An advocate can help the person or their representative understand their rights, stay involved in decisions, and challenge a DoLS authorisation if needed.
Cost and access
This advocacy is free when you meet the eligibility criteria and is arranged through the local authority. If you are unsure whether DoLS applies, you can contact us for guidance.
Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
Who it’s for
Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) supports people who are detained under the Mental Health Act, on certain community treatment orders, or subject to specific mental health powers.
How an advocate can help
An IMHA advocate helps people understand their rights, express their views, and take part in decisions about their care and treatment. They can support attendance at meetings and help raise concerns.
Cost and access
IMHA is a statutory service and is free when you meet the eligibility criteria. You would need to be referred to the service by a professional. If you’re not eligible, however, you can still contact us to talk through your situation and explore fee-paying advocacy options.
Community Advocacy - explained
Who it’s for
This advocacy supports people who want help to speak up about issues in their lives but do not meet the criteria for statutory advocacy.
How an advocate can help
An advocate can help you prepare for conversations, understand your options, and communicate your views to services. Support is shaped around what matters to you.
Cost and access
This type of advocacy may be offered as fee-paying support. We offer an initial consultation so you can decide whether this feels right for you.
Advocacy for carers and families
Who it’s for
This support is for carers or family members who are helping someone else and need guidance, clarity, or independent advice.
How an advocate can help
An advocate can help carers understand processes, prepare for meetings, and support respectful communication with professionals, while keeping the focus on the person being supported.
Cost and access
This support is usually fee-paying. An initial consultation is available to talk through your situation.