Advocacy can involve speaking, acting or writing on your behalf, with your consent, to make sure that you or your child or family member are treated fairly and with respect, and are supported to participate.

Advocates are on the side of the vulnerable person by:

– being primarily concerned with the person’s fundamental needs;

– remaining loyal and accountable to them in a way which is empathetic and vigorous (whilst respecting the rights of others);

– ensuring duty of care at all times.

Individual advocates are available from not for profit organisations in Tasmania to support people with disability to:

– stand up for their rights and choices;

– take part in their community;

– find employment and training ;

– feel valued and respected;

– achieve their goals;

– have their say.

Advocates are not ‘neutral umpires’ or mediators. They aim to promote and protect the human rights of children and people with disability and their families. Advocates work to ensure that the rights and interests of the child and young person with disability are upheld at all times.

Despite legislation and convention supporting the rights of people with disability, you may encounter occasions when you believe that something is not in the best interests of a child or young person with disability. If this occurs, you can seek assistance from an advocate.

Anyone can provide advocacy, it may be a friend or family member. They may attend a meeting with you as a support person to make you feel more at ease, help you to remember an important point to raise, or take notes about what was discussed.

You can also access a professional advocate. You can expect a professional advocate to know and understand your child’s rights and have access to supporting documentation.

You may want them to come with you when you meet others, to discuss services or issues concerning you and your family member with disability. You may want some information to enable you to make an informed decision about the rights of your family member with disability.

If for any reason you are unable to advocate on your own behalf (or for your child or family member with disability), you can ask a professional advocate to take over the role. They will work with you to understand the issues of concern, and then with your consent, will present your case.

Advocates are non-judgmental and unless a request is illegal, they will support your case, always working in the best interests of the person with disability. Professional advocates are not mediators. A professional advocate is working at your direction, they are your representative, conveying your voice, and at all times enabling the rights of the person with disability.