Support Networks

Question 1

Advocates

Answer 1

An advocate is somebody who speaks on behalf of an individual who is unable to speak up for themselves.
Individuals who may need an advocate include; young people, people with learning/physical disabilities, people with conditions such as dementia.
Organisations such as SEAP and men-cap can provide professional advocate support.

Question 2

How advocates support individuals

Answer 2

Going to meetings with individuals.
Helping an individual find/access information.
Writing letters in behalf of an individual.
Speaking on behalf of an individual at a case conference.

Question 3

An advocate Will…

Answer 3

Be independent and represent the individuals views.
Ensure an individuals rights and beliefs are maintained.
Act in the best interests of the individual.

Question 4

An advocate will not…

Answer 4

Judge the individual.
Give their own personal opinion.
Make decisions for the individual.

Question 5

Support groups

Answer 5

There are many charities - such as Mind, age uk and headway - that set up support groups. These help to empower individuals to take back control of their lives when they have, or are caring for an individual with, an illness, long term condition or disability.
These groups give people the opportunity to talk to others who can understand what they are going through because they have experienced it themselves.

Question 6

Informal support

Answer 6

Care given by those who aren’t paid to do so and who aren’t professionally trained care workers. Friends, families and neighbours often provide informal support for individuals such as; personal care, shopping, preparing meals, doing laundry etc.