So far, the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Bill, which is going through its early stages, does not dictate that the provision of independent advocacy for older people at risk of abuse should be a duty imposed on local authorities.
Everyone reading this article can help by writing to their Assembly member asking for independent advocacy for older people at risk of abuse to become a right enshrined in law.
I will produce guidance for local authorities and care home managers about the provision of independent
advocacy for older people when entering, living in, or moving from, a care home.
Volunteers would be trained in
advocacy for older people and then could support them by attending solicitors meetings and have expenses paid so they have a depth of knowledge and specialism coupled with enthusiasm and passion for the contribution which they are making, that is often not the case with paid posts.
