Advocacy
An advocate is someone who can speak up or act on your behalf. Below is a list of local organisations that can provide an advocacy service to those in need.
For Older People
The Age UK Advocacy Service - is available to pensioners in Mid Sussex. Each client is allocated an advocate (a fully trained volunteer) who can help them to access and understand information. Advocates listen to what their clients want and help them in getting their voice heard. This can involve explaining the range of choices available, writing letters, making phone calls and accompanying clients to meetings or tribunals. The service is free and confidential. For more information telephone 0800 169 8787, website: www.ageuk.org.uk.
Mid Sussex Older Peoples Council -Tries to ensure the welfare and best interests of older people is being protected and served by all decision making bodies. If you are interest or would like to raise an issue with them contact the Chairman - Barbara Baldwin on bbaldwin@bbaldwin60.fsnet.co.uk or the Secretary Mrs Willet, 12 Lurgashall, Burgess Hill, RH15 0BL or email ewillett1@aol.com
For Young People
Speak Your Mind Advocacy - for young people aged 11 - 19.
Website: www.mindcharity.co.uk/serviceswsussex.asp
For those in the North of the County: Telephone: 01444 443895. Sussex Centre for Children and Young People, c/o Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, (Office operates Tuesday, Thursday, Friday).
For those in the South of the County: Telephone: 01903 233145. West Sussex Advocacy Centre, Room 9, 2nd Floor, 45 Rowlands Road, Worthing, (Office operates Monday, Wednesday, Thursday).
For those with learning difficulties, physical and/or sensory impairment or an acquired brain injury
Impact Advocacy Service– is an organisation which offers an independent, confidential and free advocacy service to help:
- Adults with learning difficulties
- Adults with a physical and/or sensory impairment
- Adults with an acquired brain injury
- Parents with learning difficulties going through childcare proceedings
The Advocacy Service is based in Brighton, for more information please visit their website: www.impact-initiatives.org.uk, telephone: 01903 730044 or email: advocacy@impact-initiatives.org.uk.
For those with mental health problems
West Sussex Advocacy Services - for adults aged 18-65, plus a service for young people aged 11-19, experiencing mental health problems. For more information please visit: http://www.mindcharity.co.uk/serviceswsussex.asp or telephone: 01903 233145. West Sussex Advocacy Centre is based at Room 9, 2nd Floor, 45 Rowlands Road, Worthing, (Office operates Monday, Wednesday, Thursday).