Frequently asked questions...
Here are some of the questions that we often get asked when we meet people we have'nt met before. They may help you to understand more about what we do and how we work. If you still have questions please feel free to contact us.
Does it cost anything?
Choices Advocacy is a charity. We receive funding from lots of sources so the service user does not have to pay anything. The advocates are volunteers who have had some training to provide advocacy. They offer their time freely.
Do you befriend people?
We do not run a befriending service although some of our volunteers find that a friendship forms naturally with their partner. Friendship does not get in the way of an effective advocacy.
Who will the advocate talk to?
The advocate is for their partner only so will not discuss anything with anyone else unless their partner asks them to share something on their behalf.
Where will the advocate meet?
The advocate will meet their partner at a place where they feel comfortable and able to talk. This could be at home, at work, at a day centre, at our office or in a café/bar.
Will you go to meetings with me?
An advocate will support their partner at any meetings they have if requested to do so. This may be to offer some moral support for their partner, to encourage them to say what they want or it may be to physically speak for them if they find it too difficult for any reason.
What can you do?
Advocacy is about listening to someone. It can also be supporting them to tell others what they are thinking if that is what they chose. Advocacy is also about helping someone to understand what is happening and why it is happening and supporting them to access information to be able to make a choice.
What can't you do?
An advocate will never advise or persuade a person. They will never be a bossy friend or someone who tells their partner what to do. An advocate will not talk to others without their partners permission and is under no obligation to report back to professionals or families.
Who decides if someone needs an advocate?
A person can contact us themselves, or be referred through someone else. We will then meet that person and discuss advocacy with them. If the person wants advocacy and is happy for Choices Advocacy to be involved we will look at what support we can offer.
How long will I have to wait?
We try to meet people soon after we get the referral. Unfortunately this is not always possible and if the need is not urgent you may have to wait a few weeks for us to be in touch.
What training do staff and volunteers have?
All staff and volunteers are police checked and undergo training. The training includes: the principles of citizen advocacy, confidentiality, communication, listening and the principles of Choices Advocacy.