POhWER is a charity who provide information, advice, support and advocacy to people who experience disability, vulnerability, distress and social exclusion. POhWER was set up in 1996 by service users who, tired of others making assumptions about their capabilities and views, wanted equal access to information and a voice of their own.
What is advocacy?
Advocacy is empowering people to have a voice and making a real difference to their lives by speaking for them when they can't and supporting them to speak for themselves when they can.
How can an advocate help?
An advocate can help a person to:
- speak up for themselves or give their views
- understand the process they are going through, their rights and what choices are available to them
- be part of an important decision which is being made about them
- prepare for and take part in meetings and tribunals
- raise queries or concerns
- access information in the format which is most suitable
- access services that can support them
Advocates can also provide information and signpost people to other helpful services.
Statutory Advocacy
Brent residents needing support will benefit from:
Care Act Advocacy
The Care Act says that local councils must involve people in decisions about their care and support needs. If it would be difficult for someone to be involved without support the council must make sure they get the help they need. If the person doesn’t have someone who can help them they have the right to have an independent Care Act advocate.
Independent Mental Capacity Act Advocacy
An IMCA is an advocate who has been specially trained to support people who are not able to make certain decisions for themselves and do not have family or friends who are able to speak for them. IMCAs do not make decisions and they are independent of the people who do make the decisions
Independent Mental Health Act Advocacy
An IMHA is an independent advocate who is trained in the Mental Health Act 1983 and supports people to understand their rights under the Act and participate in decisions about their care and treatment. Our advocates are not employed by the NHS or any private healthcare provider and they provide free, independent and confidential support.