The Consultation & Advocacy Promotion Service

Volunteering with CAPS

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy is about helping somebody to express their wishes, to make choices and to get the help they want, when they want it.

It is a fact of life that many of us find ourselves in situations where other people are making decisions about us, without our having a proper say in what is happening.

Sometimes…

• you are over-whelmed by a situation
• people are not taking the time to explain things properly to you
• people are not listening to what you have to say
• people have decided that you are not able to make decisions for yourself, and take them for you
• doctors, nurses, social workers and other professionals use jargon – words you don’t understand

People who use mental health services often find themselves in need of someone to help them put their point of view across.

People may look for help from a volunteer advocate to go with them to a health appointment.

Volunteer advocates can also work with people to get help to deal with problems such as housing or benefits.

What is involved in Volunteer Advocacy with CAPS?

The work is varied, interesting and rewarding, and has made a real difference to many people who have used the advocacy service.

Volunteers complete an initial training course. Topics include advocacy skills, health care, mental health, local services and the law.

Volunteers are then supported in the advocacy work they do by CAPS staff.

“I have really enjoyed my experience of advocacy and learnt so much. Thank you.”
CAPS Volunteer Advocate

If you wish to find out more about volunteering, please get in touch with the Individual Advocacy Service based in our East Lothian office on 0131 665 9698 or use our contact form.