Supporting and Promoting Indpendent Advocacy in Gateshead

“Advocacy is when a person or a group of people speak up for themselves or others. It is about supporting and sometimes representing peoples needs, opinions and choices.”

What is advocacy?

Advocacy is about supporting people to make informed choices, to make sure their views are heard, and to take as much control as possible over their own lives.  Advocates, whether paid or volunteers, are trained to help people to get the information they need, and to have a voice.  Advocates also help people to make sure their rights are respected.

Advocacy is for people who are oppressed or at risk of being oppressed. They may include:

• People with learning difficulties, mental distress or dementia
• Young people
• Older people
• Homeless people
• People with physical or sensory impairments
• Non-English speakers
• And many others