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Citizen Advocacy and Appropriate Adults
To become a Citizen Advocate or an Appropriate Adult you need to be interested in the rights of the individual and to be concerned about people who may be at a disadvantage because of a learning disability or a mental health problem. You do not need to have any special knowledge in these areas, just an open mind and the commitment to support a vulnerable individual.
Training / Preparation
Initial stage
There is an interview and an application form which requests two references to be returned.
Preparation is given in small groups over several sessions. It aims to define the nature and limits of the role of an Advocate / Appropriate Adult and to give a background to the work.
The course includes:
- definition of roles and operation procedures
- statutory provision - applicable law and existing services for vulnerable client groups.
- understanding of mental health and learning disability.
- equal opportunities
- knowledge and skills
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Follow-on interview
Following the preparation sessions the co-ordinator and volunteer meet to discuss the role and the volunteer''s suitability for it. All being well, an initial discussion about a partnership will begin. |
On-going support is provided through informal supervision and opportunities to get together with other volunteers to exchange ideas and enjoy social interaction.
Reliability is essential but the roles are flexible - you decide how much time you can offer. |