Advocacy
Overview
Advocacy helps you to speak up about what you need and want. It doesn't make decisions for you. It’s useful if you feel unheard or need help getting what you need.
The Care Act 2014 says local councils must involve you in decisions about your care and support needs. If it’s hard for you to be involved without help, we must make sure you get the support you need. If there’s no one to help, you have the legal right to an independent Care Act advocate.
Walsall Council funds POhWER to provide advocacy services for people in Walsall.
What advocates can help with
Care Act advocate
They will help you understand and take part in needs assessments and care reviews that we carry out. They’ll also make sure you can take part in decisions about your care, even if you find it hard to communicate your needs.
Find out more about Care Act advocacy
Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA)
If you find it hard to make decisions about your care and other services, an IMCA can help you. They are not part of the council, NHS, or other agencies that make decisions about your care. The advocate doesn't make decisions for you but helps make sure your best interests and wishes are reflected in your care. They will protect your rights.
Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA)
IMHAs are trained to help people with mental health needs understand their rights under the Mental Health Act 1983. They can help you take part in decisions about:
- assessments
- treatment in a hospital
- mental health care at home
Independent Complaints Advocacy (ICA Service)
The ICA gives free help when you need support with a complaint about the NHS. They offer practical support and advice to help you find a solution to your complaint about health and social care services.
How to get advocacy support
To get advocacy support in Walsall, you’ll need to:
- visit the POhWER website
- download and complete a referral form
- submit it to POhWHER
You can find their contact details on their website and on the form.
Advocacy service for parents with disabilities
You can get free support from Mencap if you’re a parent and:
- you have a disability or mental health support needs
- you’re aged between 18 and 65
- you live in Walsall borough
They can help you if:
- your children have been taken into care
- your children still live with you but are on a ‘Child at Risk’ register
We employ a single Mencap specialised family carer advocate. You can contact them for advocacy support or more information.
