Purposes of Independent Advocacy
- Empower individuals: Enable individuals with disabilities, vulnerabilities, or complex needs to have a voice and make informed decisions about their lives.
- Promote self-determination: Support individuals in understanding and exercising their rights, choices, and control over their own lives.
- Ensure access to services and support: Assist individuals in accessing appropriate services, support, and resources to meet their needs.
- Protect rights and prevent abuse: Advocate for individuals' rights and interests, ensure their protection, and prevent any form of abuse or neglect.
- Foster social inclusion: Promote the full participation of individuals in society, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging.
Principles of Independent Advocacy
- Independence and impartiality: Independent advocates are not affiliated with any service provider or government agency, ensuring their objectivity and independence.
- Client-centered approach: Advocates prioritize the needs, wishes, and values of the individuals they support, respecting their autonomy and self-determination.
- Confidentiality and trust: Advocates maintain strict confidentiality and build trust-based relationships with individuals, enabling open and honest communication.
- Person-led advocacy: Advocates recognize the expertise of the individuals they support and empower them to lead their own advocacy efforts.
- Empowerment: Advocates focus on developing the skills and knowledge of individuals, enabling them to become self-advocates and navigate their own support systems.
- Rights-based approach: Advocates uphold the rights and entitlements of individuals based on relevant laws, policies, and conventions.
- Holistic support: Advocates provide comprehensive support that addresses all aspects of an individual's life, including their physical, emotional, social, and legal needs.
- Systemic advocacy: Advocates identify and address systemic barriers and inequalities that affect the lives of individuals with disabilities or complex needs.
- Equality and non-discrimination: Advocates promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all individuals have fair and equitable access to services and support.
- Accessibility and transparency: Advocates ensure that their services are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, and that their processes are transparent and accountable.