An advocate is an independent person who works to ensure
that the older person’s voice and views are heard
and listened to. It’s easy to make assumptions about
the needs and the wishes of older people, people often think- out
of the best of motives- that they “know what’s best”
for an older person…. But did they actually ask the
older person him/herself?
We believe that older people are entitled to the same choices and opportunities enjoyed by others. Sometimes, though, circumstances mean that people don't feel able or aren't given the chance to make these choices themselves. This may leave people feeling that they are losing control over what happens in their life.
The Government, nationally and locally, is beginning to acknowledge
that people have a right to the support of an advocate if they feel
they need it—not just in fighting battles but in expressing
themselves generally.
Advocacy is a way of supporting people by adding strength to the voice of the individual. If someone feels their views and wishes are not being listened to, an advocate will be able to help. Advocacy is about enabling people to make informed choices and then communicate their views. The advocate is independent and is only there as support. Everything discussed with an advocate is confidential and an advocate will only take action when directed to.
Age Concern Manchester’s own Advocacy Service currently provides
support for older people in residential and nursing homes throughout the city.
For example:
- If you have decisions to make or concerns you wish to address
and would like someone to support you in doing so.
- If you or your relative has problems sorting out money matters,
we may be able to assist so you retain control over your affairs.
- We also have a small team of visitors who go into residential
and nursing homes, just to chat with residents and spend a little
time with them.
- We have information on all issues relating to residential
and nursing care. We can help with things like lists of care
homes in your area and information on funding and benefits.
- We attend care plan reviews, administer residents' finances and support people referred to the service.
A large part of our work is supporting older people in need of
long-term care but we also offer our support to relatives
and carers of older people faced with these sorts of issues.
Even if you simply want to discuss these issues with someone, please
contact us.
Our Aims:
- To protect the rights of older people
- To encourage personal independence
- To enable older people to make genuine and informed choices
- To empower older people to maintain control over their life choices and lifestyle despite changing circumstances and health and social care needs
- To encourage and support older people in participating in the decision-making processes which affect their lives
- To promote the dignity and consideration which are due to all older people
- To promote inclusive attitudes which respect the cultural and ethnic diversity of older people in society
The team is funded by the Manchester Primary Care Trusts.
Older People’s Advocacy Service
24 Mount Street
Manchester
M2 3NN
0161 833 3944
Email us at advocacy@silverservice.org.uk
Although the service only provides support in relation to care
homes at present, in future we hope to be able to offer our service
to other groups of people.
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