Advocacy benefits vulnerable adults who may not be aware of their entitlements. They should be supported to make choices on how they want to live their lives. People who may be subject to detention deserve to know their rights and how to achieve them. Advocacy is there to support them to do this. I enjoy being able to help and support people to make a difference to their daily lives.
As an advocate within the Mental Health Act Service I witness everyday the importance of the support provided to those vulnerable in the community. This ensures people are informed of their rights and have their views heard when decisions are made regarding their lives when detained and at Mental Health Tribunals, reviews and meetings.
People who are subject to the Mental Health (Care & Treatment) (Scotland) Act – who have a mental health issue, learning disability, autism or dementia – have a legal right to independent advocacy. The role of the advocate is not restricted to mental health situations. This means that if you are detained in hospital and/or are subject to a Compulsory Treatment Order (CTO) we can visit you if you need help to make your views known, e.g., in a mental health tribunal or appeal.
People subject to the Mental Health Act have the right:
