What is an advocate?
At times, we all can find it difficult to speak up for ourselves and somebody else, like an advocate, might be able to help by speaking up on your behalf. An advocate will act as your mouthpiece. An advocate’s job is to represent your views, your needs and your rights by speaking or writing on your behalf. An advocate can attend meetings with you or instead of you and they can help you get your entitlements.
Many advocates are people who have experience of mental health or learning disability services themselves and may have used the services in the past, so they’re well-placed to understand what you’re going through.
How to get an advocate
All patients are allocated a care co-ordinator who will know about advocacy services. Or, you can contact one of the advocacy and support services in our area, using the list below.
Support Groups and Organisations
- Rethink Help & support for people affected by mental illness: 0300 5000 927
- LAMP (Leicestershire Action for Mental Health Project): 0116 255 628
- Alzheimer’s Society Advocacy, information and support for people with dementia and carers: 0116 251 0366
- Samaritans Available 24 hours a day to provide confidential emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress, despair or suicidal thoughts:116 123
- Sane improve the quality of life for anyone affected by mental illness, including family friends and carers: 0300 304 7000
- Mental Health Foundation improves the lives of those with mental health problems or learning disabilities through research, service development and information: 020 7803 1100.
Help for living a healthier lifestyle - Quitting smoking: City team: 0116 295 4141; Leicestershire and Rutland team: 0845 045 2828
- Healthy eating: Leicestershire Nutrition and Dietetic Service – 0116 222 7170
- Fitness: Leicestershire & Rutland Sports Partnership
- Clubs, societies and community organisations: Infolinx
Finance
- Money Wellness or call 0800 011 4231 (Mon–Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm).