Advocacy

Action Deafness' Advocacy and Mentoring service is a free and confidential service open to all deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing people living in Leicestershire and Rutland. It is intended to assist clients in fulfilling their needs and asserting their rights.

An advocate can assist in the following:-

Offering advice and support in dealings with organisations. This could relate to complaints or other issues with:-

• a school
• a hospital
• the local authority
• an employer
• or other service provider

Advocates can also assist in other areas including completion of various forms, applications, and representation on the client's behalf at meetings or benefit appeal tribunals.

Using an advocate is different from using an Interpreter, who can only pass on the information given and received. The advocate can be present to offer information, advice, and help in making decisions.