Advocacy and Service Navigation

What is advocacy?

Advocacy services help people – particularly those who are most vulnerable in society – to:
a) access information and services
b) be involved in decisions about their lives
c) explore choices and options
d) defend and promote their rights and responsibilities
e) speak out about issues that matter to them
(Source NHS England)

What is an advocate?

An advocacy service is provided by someone who is independent of social services and the NHS, and who isn’t part of your family or one of your friends.

An advocate’s role includes arguing your case when you need them to, and making sure the correct procedures are followed by your health and social care services. (Source NHS England)

Our advocacy service means we are there to represent your wishes without giving any personal opinions and without representing the views of any other organisation.

We can do things like:
a) help you access information you need
b) go with you to meetings or interviews in a supportive role
c) write letters on your behalf or
d) speak for you in situations where you don’t feel able to speak for yourself.

"We are medical practitioners. The real experts are the parents. Over the last 35 years they have taught me everything I know"

Lucia Braga; Brazil

"Brain development is complex and prolonged. Brain plasticity is influenced by a range of factors. Plasticity provides a base for neuro-rehab therapies and treatment"

Professor Bryan Kolb; Canada

"Case management for children and young people post acquired brain injury is 'pivotal' to successful outcomes and must be local"

Deborah Andrews; New Zealand

"Positive and coordinated neuro-rehab interventions for children and young people is proven to bring health improvements; improve independence; reduces the need for sheltered living; decreases vulnerability; decreases drop-out rates in schools; decreases youth offending"

Eric Hermans; Netherlands

"When someone has a brain injury, early access to local, specialist rehabilitation is crucial to ensure the maximum recovery and make significant savings to the state in health costs"

Headway; United Kingdom

I was very impressed with the results you have had with the young people you have worked with.

"We are impressed with the progress you have made with the individual we referred to you." Social Worker

"Healthy teens are better at identifying strategies to deal with barriers. KIDS WITH ABI'S CAN'T!"

Shari Wade; USA

"There are problems with getting people into neuro-rehab. Those most in need are often those most excluded due to a lack of socio-economic resources."

Vicki Anderson; Australia

This is the best support plan we have ever seen that will deliver the best outcomes for this young person. The costings are 'spot on' and realistic'. Direct Payments Team.

OUR MISSION: To work to remove inequalities for children & young people affected by acquired brain injury; and provide effective support to their families that makes a real difference to their lives.