Speak up

Everyone has the right to be listened to and to be respected, but sometimes speaking up can be difficult, especially when you are anxious or feeling unwell. There are lots of people who may be able to support you such as family, friends and support workers but there may be times when you feel you need someone independent to represent your views or to make sure you have all the information you need to make a difficult decision. This is when Advocacy Services are useful.

Advocacy

In Lincolnshire the provider of Advocacy Services is Total Voice

IMHA – Independent Mental Health Advocacy

What is it? – People who help you to speak up for yourself. They will ensure that your views and wishes are heard. These people do not work for CAMHS and are there just to support you.

What don’t they do? – Advocates do not make decisions for you. They are not counsellors. They do not give advice but will make sure that you have the right information to make a decision.

When would you use one? – If you are aged 16 or over and using CAMHS community services or Inpatient services.

If you are being treated under a Mental Health Act Section, (This would be explained to you, if you were) you are entitled to an advocate at any age. Once a referral has been made to the Advocacy service they would have to see you within 72 hours.

Find out more about the role of the IMHA>>

IMCA – Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy

When would you use one? Advocates will support you if you have a disability, impairment or injury which stops you from being able to make a decision about your treatment.

What do they do? They will work with your family to find out what your wishes and feelings are and make sure that these wishes are heard by the staff. The Mental Capacity Act (2005) has lots of rules around how people should be treated if they are unable to make decisions for themselves. An advocate will make sure that services are following these rules properly.

Find out more about the role of the IMCA>>

How to refer:

Telephone Advocacy Service

You can make a referral by contacting: 01529 400479

This advocacy service, where you can speak to a fully-trained advocate is available:

  • Monday to Friday, from 9.00am until 8.00pm
  • Saturday, from 10.00 am until 4.00pm.

Complete a referral form>>

If you live in North East Lincolnshire the advocacy service is:

Voices Together, Cloverleaf Advocacy, Business & Digital Hub, Nelson Street, Grimsby, DN32 7DS

Telephone: 0303 303 0413

www.cloverleaf-advocacy.co.uk