Advocacy is free if you meet the criteria under the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act or Mental Health Act. Advocacy in Portsmouth is provided by South West Advocacy Network (SWAN). You cannot self-refer but we will arrange advocacy if it’s needed.
Advocacy: How to make important decisions
Learn what advocacy means and how advocates help you make important decisions, access services, and protect your rights under the Care Act, MCA, and MHA.
What is an advocate?
An advocate is someone who helps you express your views and explain what you want, if you find it difficult to do so on your own. They can support you to:
- Access information and services
- Be involved in decisions about your life
- Explore your options
- Understand and protect rights
Advocacy is free if you meet the criteria under the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act or Mental Health Act. You cannot self-refer but we will arrange advocacy if it’s needed.
Care Act advocacy
You may be entitled to an independent advocate if:
- You have substantial difficulty being involved your care and support assessment, planning and review, or safeguarding, and
- There is no one appropriate to support you
This applies to:
- Adults with care needs,
- Carers (including young carers), and
- Carers of children in transition
Mental Capacity Act Advocacy (IMCA)
An IMCA supports people aged 16+ who lack capacity to make certain important decisions and have no one else who can help.
This includes:
- Long-term accommodation decisions
- Serious medical treatment
- Safeguarding concerns
Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
An IMHA helps you to understand your rights under the Mental Health Act and ensures your voice is heard. They do not give legal advice but will help you get a solicitor if you need one.