Some people need extra support to understand their rights, make decisions or express their wishes. Independent advocacy plays an important role in ensuring that people's views remain at the centre of decision-making.
During the year:
Advocates supported people through safeguarding processes, care planning and important decisions about their health and wellbeing, helping to protect their rights and interests.
They also supported people who were subject to Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). DoLS are legal protections for people who lack the mental capacity to make certain decisions about their care and are receiving care in a hospital or care home where restrictions are in place to keep them safe. These safeguards help ensure that any restrictions are necessary, proportionate and in the person's best interests, while protecting their rights and access to independent support.
Demand for advocacy and support relating to mental capacity and DoLS continued to grow throughout the year, reflecting increasing awareness of people's rights and the importance of ensuring vulnerable adults have a voice in decisions affecting their lives.