My day as a YVC advocate

As part of our Advocacy Awareness Week 2024 series, we're sharing examples of how #AdvocacyWorks and makes an impact on the people we support. Here, our advocate Gillian shares a day in her life.

For more information about the advocacy services we offer in Newcastle, Gateshead and South Tyneside, visit www.yvc.org.uk/adovcacy. #AAW24

My day as an advocate

9am - emails and calendar

My day starts with checking my calendar and emails—it's always busy, so I like to stay organised. I’ve got an email from a responsible clinician (RC) regarding Sue who is in hospital under the Mental Health Act. We arrange to meet later today to talk about Sue's options.

Next, I respond to a few more emails, including one from a social worker I’ve been trying to reach for almost two weeks about a Care Act referral. Communication has been tricky, but it’s important to touch base with referrers before contacting the person involved. I set a reminder to follow up tomorrow if I don’t hear back and get ready to leave..

10am - day centre visit

I head out to visit Rob at his day service. Rob always seems happy here, and I’ve been working with him as his Care Act advocate to review his care plan. The staff at the day centre have great communication tools, which makes it easier for us to talk about his thoughts on his accommodation and care.

11am - coffee and catch up

After meeting Rob, I stop by the office in the day centre to grab some advocacy plans, print out some images for my next visit and enjoy a cup of coffee while catching up with colleagues. Good relationships with colleagues from different services are everything!

While in the office, I finally get a response from the social worker about the Care Act case I’ve been chasing. We have a useful chat, and she lets me know that Steph, the person referred, is undecided about advocacy. We agree to a joint visit so I can explain how I can support her.

Noon - travel time

My next meeting is with Sue in the RVI so I drive over to Newcastle.

12.30 - lunch

I’ve brought my lunch with me so I enjoy it on a bench in Leazes Park before heading into the hospital.

1pm - meet Sue and her team

Sue isn't able to return to her previous home so as Independent Mental Health Act advocate I’m here to find out what her needs are now and discuss her options for new accommodation. I’ve brought pictures of two potential places and want to explore her preferences. Staff on the ward are helpful and provide us with a room to meet, and we have a good conversation, with Sue showing some interest in the options presented.

2pm - back to the office

Back at my laptop, I catch up on admin, including an Independent Mental Capacity report for a serious medical treatment case. I email the social worker for an update on aftercare, which I’ll need for the report, and spend the rest of the day tying up loose ends—making calls, updating case notes, and responding to emails. We also have our team meeting which is a great chance to hear updates from colleagues and share learning from our recent cases.

Towards the end of the day, I get some great news: Trevor, a client I’ve been supporting as his RPR (Relevant Person’s Representative), has regained capacity and can return home soon. It’s a perfect end to a busy day, knowing that I’ve made a difference for people like Trevor.

5pm - time for home

Each day as an advocate is full of variety and challenges. My role is about giving people the voice and support they need. It’s not always easy, but seeing positive outcomes makes it all worthwhile!