Advocacy for Older People
The Advocacy for Older People service is for
anyone aged 60 plus who needs support to get
their wishes heard. An older person's advocate
will represent their client interests and
concerns as if they were there own. Having an
advocate can mean someone being more
independent, knowing their rights and choices
and having more of a say in the decisions that
affect them. Carers can also have support from
the service as can people with dementia.
You do not need to be referred to the
Advocacy for Older People service by a medical
or social care professional.
Some of the issues an older person's advocate
can help with are:
- Getting more information about treatment
- Protecting vulnerable adults from
exploitation and abuse
- Finding out information on a range of
medical services and mental health
legislation
- Accessing services
- Dealing with agencies like housing and
social services
- Helping sort out welfare rights and
benefits, particularly Disability Living
Allowance and Attendance Allowance and
appeals
By giving the necessary help and support some
clients are able to self advocate and represent
themselves more effectively whilst others
require the advocate to represent them directly.
When you contact the AOP service the advocate
will make an appointment to see you either at
the Bath Mind office in Abbey Church Yard or in
your home. |
