Advocacy in action – Mandy’s Story

This #SafeguardingAdultsWeek #SAW2024 we’re celebrating the powerful partnership between advocacy organisations and Safeguarding Boards. Advocacy ensures that real voices are central to safeguarding conversations, keeping the focus on the people who matter most.

When advocacy and safeguarding work together, we’re not just protecting people from harm—we’re building a community where everyone can feel secure, valued and heard.

Mandy is one of over 1,600 people we’ve supported this year alone. Her story shows the importance of putting the person first and taking action when something isn’t right.

Mandy’s story

Joan, one of our dedicated Care Act advocates, was supporting Mandy during a review of her care. Just before attending a meeting together, Mandy shared something with Joan that raised serious concerns. Joan began to worry that Mandy might be at risk of sexual exploitation.

Recognising Mandy’s vulnerability, Joan discussed her concerns with Mandy and, with her permission, shared them with the social worker. However, the social worker didn’t feel these concerns required a safeguarding referral.

Unsure of the decision, Joan reached out to her manager for guidance. After discussing it together, they decided it was important to take further action. Joan was asked to make a safeguarding referral to the local authority and to contact the police for additional support. To do this sensitively, Joan worked closely with Mandy to document the details of her concerns, carefully checking with Mandy to ensure that everything was recorded accurately and respectfully.

Throughout Mandy’s review, Joan supported her in staying informed and involved, while always putting Mandy’s wishes first. The police met with Mandy, offering her practical advice on staying safe. Joan then helped Mandy to ask her social worker for a referral to a course that would help her recognise early signs of risk in the future.

Joan kept Mandy updated every step of the way, following Mandy’s lead on how and when to meet, and making sure she had the support she wanted at each stage. This case shows the importance of person-centred advocacy in safeguarding—Joan was there not only to voice Mandy’s concerns but also to respect her choices, keeping Mandy at the heart of every decision.

For more information about our advocacy services, visit www.ycv.org.uk/advocacy.

*Names have been changed for anonymity.