At MHM Wales, we believe that everyone deserves a voice, especially in moments when life’s challenges make it hard to be heard.
Our Independent Professional Advocacy (IPA) services play a crucial role in ensuring individuals have the support they need to make informed decisions, access essential services, and safeguard their rights. From navigating complex care systems to ensuring that people’s wishes are respected, advocacy empowers people at every step of the way.
In Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea, MHM Wales provides advocacy services that are changing lives every day. We work to empower individuals, giving them the confidence to take control of their well-being, access the care they need, and speak out when something isn’t right. This is the story of how our advocacy services make a lasting impact on communities across Wales.
What is Independent Advocacy?
Independent advocacy provides impartial support, helping individuals navigate their rights and make decisions about their care and well-being. It’s about standing up for people when they need it most, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected.
Whether someone needs assistance with a care home move, social services access, or making a complaint, advocacy gives people the confidence to take charge of their lives.
At MHM Wales, our IPA services are available for those who may struggle to make decisions independently or feel overwhelmed by complex systems.
Our advocates provide guidance, support, and representation to ensure that each individual’s voice is heard in decisions affecting their care.
Our Services in Action
Here are just a few examples of how our IPA services support individuals across Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea:
Supporting a Care Home Transition
One of our advocates recently assisted an elderly woman, Margaret, in transitioning from her home into a care facility. Margaret had initially resisted the move, feeling anxious and unsure about her options.
Our advocate worked closely with her, explaining her rights, providing information on the available care facilities, and helping her make an informed decision. Thanks to our support, Margaret was able to choose a care home that suited her needs, and she now feels more at ease with the transition.
Accessing Social Services
John, a 45-year-old man with learning difficulties, struggled to access the social services support he was entitled to. He felt lost in the system, not knowing where to turn. Our IPA team stepped in, liaising with social services on his behalf, ensuring that he received the right level of support. Today, John has the assistance he needs and is better equipped to manage his care.
Making a Complaint
Advocacy is not only about access to services—it’s also about ensuring that individuals can speak out when things go wrong. Sarah, a mother of two, needed support to file a complaint about the poor care her father received in a hospital.
Our advocate guided her through the complaint process, ensuring that her voice was heard, and appropriate action was taken.
In 2023, MHM Wales received over 243 referrals for IPA services across Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea. Our advocacy helped individuals with over 546 requests re care home moves, appointments with social services, and navigating the complaints process.
We’ve seen first-hand how advocacy can empower people and ensure they receive the care and support they deserve.
Through our IPA services, we’re breaking down barriers for some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. Every person we support represents another voice that is heard, another decision that is informed, and another life that is transformed.
How You Can Help
Advocacy Awareness Week 2024
Advocacy is a powerful tool, but it requires support. MHM Wales relies funding from Local Authorities and Health boards. Plus the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers to keep our services running.
By supporting us, you’re helping individuals across Wales gain the confidence and support they need to take control of their lives.
Interested in helping us make a difference?
Consider Supporting Wales today. Every little bit helps us provide advocacy services to those who need them most.
Together, we can empower more individuals and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard.
MHM Wales’ Advocacy services are transforming lives every day. Whether it’s helping someone navigate a care transition, access services, or make their voice heard in the face of injustice, advocacy is a vital service.
If you’d like to support our work, get involved by visiting our website for more informatioon ww.mhmwales.org.uk
Commentaires