Safeguarding and Advocacy

Throughout the safeguarding process, the adult must have as much information as they require about the steps involved and support them to participate in the Where the adult lacks mental capacity in relation to relevant decisions or they will have ‘substantial difficulty’ being involved in the process they must be provided with access to an advocate. This may be an informal advocate from their own support network if one is available and there is no conflict of interest, but if no one is available, independent advocacy must be arranged.

Typically, during a safeguarding intervention an advocate would support the adult to:

• • understand the concerns identified and communicate their views on these
  • understand the safeguarding process and how they can be involved
  • weigh up pros and cons, during the enquiry and support them to communicate their wishes
  • understand who and how the enquiry will be undertaken
  • support them to identify and communicate their views about the enquiry
  • support them to identify and communicate their views about ways to keep them safe
  • understand written information about them – for example, strategy plan, protection plan, meeting minutes
  • raise any questions or concerns they may have about the process

Where the adult lacks capacity in relation to relevant decisions, the advocate would also undertake the following:

• • identify the adults views, wishes, feelings and desired outcomes about the enquiry and about any protective measures and support the safeguarding professionals to consider them
  • attend all meetings to represent the adult, ensuring they understand all aspects of the safeguarding process and that they raise any concerns they have.