Help for you

There may be times when you need help to get things done, for example if you're having difficulty accessing benefits or services. Advocacy represents your interests and helps you obtain the services you need. An advocate is someone who argues your case for you and makes sure the correct procedures are followed. Knowing where to find an advocate is useful if you’re a carer or someone who needs taking care of.

Advocacy services describe what they do in different ways, but their main role is to help you when you need it.

Advocacy organisations

Some local councils have their own advocacy services. To find out if there are any in your area, you can contact your local council or check its website. You can use the search function on the Directgov website to find the contact details.

If you have a care co-ordinator from your local social services or healthcare team, they will liaise with other agencies for you.

Action for Advocacy (A4A) is a leading authority on advocacy services. A4A doesn't provide advocacy services, but there is a database of advocacy services in England and Wales on the Action for Advocacy website.

The Independent Complaints Advocacy Service (ICAS) supports patients and their carers who wish to pursue a complaint about their NHS treatment or care.

Diabetes UK offers an advocacy service for vulnerable people with diabetes that is available in many areas of England and Wales. Email the Diabetes UK advocacy service or visit the Diabetes UK website.

Age UK gives advice and information to older people and their carers, family, friends and other people involved in their care. Some branches offer advocacy services. Find your local branch on the Age UK website.

Carers UK has a free advice line for carers. Call 0808 808 7777 or visit the Carers UK website for advice on many aspects of caring. Carers UK doesn't provide an advocacy service, but can give you information on where to go for help.