Gwent Advocacy Service

What is advocacy?

Advocacy is a free, independent and confidential service that assists you to know your rights and to have more voice, choice and control when decisions are made that affect you.

“My advocate really listened and helped me feel included in what was happening. They understood the system and gave me the confidence to be involved and speak up, even though I didn’t get everything I wanted.”

How can an advocate help?

An advocate is someone who will:

be there just for you and to take your side

help you to find and understand information

help you to consider your options and make your own decisions

ensure that your views, wishes and feelings are listened to and considered

speak on your behalf when you need them to

Is the advocacy helpline for me?

Yes if:

you are 18+, live in Greater Gwent (Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen), and need help talking to professionals in public services about your care and support needs

you are a carer aged 18+, live in Greater Gwent and need help talking to professionals in public services about either your own care and support needs or those of someone you care for

you are a relative, friend or professional who thinks a person may benefit from advocacy

What happens when I contact the advocacy helpline?

We offer information, advice and support with signposting and referrals to adult advocacy services. As we are independent of local authorities, the NHS and advocacy providers, we can ensure that you recieve the type of advocacy that is right for you.