Advocacy is the process of standing beside an individual or group and speaking out on their behalf to protect and promote their rights and interests. Who does Advocacy Tasmania provide service for? People who are aged People with disabilities People with mental health disorders Their carers, relatives and representatives What does our advocacy service do? We can: provide you with information about your rights and responsibilities help you to resolve problems or complaints We do this by: speaking for you if you wish; or helping you to speak up on your own behalf How to use the service Most people contact us by telephone. Deaf clients contact us by telephoning the National Relay Service via 13 3677 (TTY/Voice) or 1300 555 727 (SSR). However, some people come in to our office, write to us or email us. If you would like a home visit, this can be arranged. How we work We will listen to you to understand your needs and concerns. We will provide information on your rights and responsibilities and also discuss with you the possible courses of action that could be taken. Support to self-advocate We will support you (or a relative or friend) to speak on your behalf to have your problem addressed. We believe that helping you to self-advocate empowers you and those around you by increasing knowledge, skills and confidence. Representational advocacy Sometimes people need someone who will speak on their behalf. We call this representational advocacy. When representing you our advocate will: work at your direction be on your side assist you to resolve matters as quickly and as amicably as possible Referrals to other agencies Sometimes there are other people or agencies who are better able to assist. When this occurs we can provide referral to the most appropriate person or agency. Principles of advocacy Client Directed Advocates work at the direction of clients. Advocates may advise clients as to options so that the client makes an informed choice. Conflict Management Advocates endeavour to avoid confrontational approaches as much as possible Confidentiality Confidentiality builds trust between client and advocate. Clients have the right to expect that information will be dealt with confidentially unless they give their express permission for it to be disclosed. Culturally Sensitive Advocates must take into consideration the cultural, linguistic and communication needs of clients. Duty of Care The advocate has a duty of care to not advocate in ways that are illegal or that will cause significant harm to the client. Empowerment Advocacy works to increase the power and control clients have over their lives. Independent Advocacy must be independent, with no conflicts of interest. It must focus solely on the rights and interests of the client. Needs Based Service is provided to people in the client group according to need. The service is free and equitable. Partisan Advocacy is on the side of the disadvantaged party. It exists to assist clients. Advocates are not neutral umprires or mediators.