Advocacy is when a person makes sure that someone's voice is heard. This is by speaking up for them or supporting them to speak up for themselves. 

The Newcastle Advocacy Centre is looking to recruit and train the following type of volunteers;

Citizen Advocacy Volunteers – volunteer citizen advocates are recruited, trained and supported to be advocates for vulnerable people (aged 18+), usually people with learning disabilities, mental health issues and older people living in the Newcastle area.  Citizen advocates are matched with a vulnerable adult, they’ll then build up a relationship with a person, speaking and acting on their behalf when needed.  This involves daytime and weekend availability.  

Case Advocacy Volunteers - volunteer case advocates are recruited, trained and supported to be advocates on short-term cases on behalf of people with mental health needs (aged 17+) in the Newcastle area.  Case advocates will undertake case work involving advocacy issues with people with mental health needs, involves activity only. 

Training – Newcastle Advocacy provides a structured introductory preparation for the role of being an advocate.  Volunteers received quality on going support.  Newcastle Advocacy also provide travel expenses (within reason) for volunteers when undertaking their role and occasional social events.  Advocates have the opportunity to support others t make real choices and decisions in their lives.  Advocates have access to free quarterly training events.  Advocates gain skills in negotiation, representation, research liaison with agencies and an understanding of disability issues and advocacy.   

Interested?  Contact us.