Oxfordshire Advocacy (OA) plays an important part in safeguarding vulnerable people by giving them a voice.

OA offers a free, confidential, non-judgemental and independent advocacy service to all adults living in the county and, in particular, the most marginalised and disadvantaged sections of our community, helping them to secure their rights and represent their interests.

These are people who may be isolated in their own home, care homes or hospitals, or living in vulnerable situations.

They may lack confidence to speak and without such support individuals may be the subject of abuse and their voices ignored.

Naomi Karslake of OA gives an example. Dorothy* is an elderly and frail lady who collapsed and was hospitalised. After being discharged, Dorothy was cared for at her nephew’s home. OA’s advocate supported her to express her wishes for her future housing. Advocacy support took place amid complex family dynamics, with conflict between Dorothy’s nephew and stepdaughter as to where they personally felt their aunt/stepmother should live. Dorothy was empowered to ask for her own choice which was to move to her stepdaughter’s house.”

“Dorothy got to live where she preferred. She was able to revoke the Power of Attorney held by her nephew, which had been signed by Dorothy under duress while she was confused and unwell in hospital. With involvement the family could see that the most important thing was to work towards what Dorothy personally wanted.”

Naomi explains more about the process; “Volunteers must attend a free three-day training course to learn the principles of advocacy, look at case studies and practice the skills needed to become a confident advocate on behalf of OA and the people they will support.”

An Oxfordshire Advocacy volunteer expresses the personal joy of volunteering; “Many of us take for granted that we can get our point of view across in most circumstances – we are used to being heard. But for those who lack that ability, life can be a daily struggle. I derive huge satisfaction seeing my partner’s** relief at being heard as a result of the support that Oxfordshire Advocacy offers.”

Oxfordshire Advocacy’s next volunteer course takes place on February 6, 7 and 14 in Oxford. If you would like to know more about becoming a volunteer advocate or to book on this course, call 01865 741200 or email: oadg.oadg.org.uk

Fundraising more your thing?

Volunteer fundraisers also needed by OA. Call Susan on 01865 741200 to find out more. Also visit www.gettingheard.org for more information * Names have been changed