Independent Advocacy Service

Supporting you to have your say and be heard

Advocacy for Independence (AFI) is an independent, free and confidential advocacy service run by the ILA for people with disabilities and their carers across West Sussex.

Our advocates support people to speak up in situations when they do not feel confident to speak up for themselves or do not feel listened to or treated with dignity and respect.

AFI has a number of volunteer advocates and a few part-time paid advocates. All advocates are fully trained, CRB checked and receive regular supervision and ongoing training.

Advocates do not offer advice, tell people what to do or make judgements about anyone. They simply gather information, explain the choices available and carry out tasks in accordance with clients' wishes.

Typical ways they help include:

• making telephone calls
• attending meetings
• taking notes of meetings
• writing letters
• researching, collating and clarifying information
• looking at available options
• making a complaint

The service is available to people aged over 16 with:

• a physical disability
• a learning difficulty
• a sensory impairment such as being blind or deaf
• mental health problems
• a long-term illness
• acquired brain injury
• problems due to being frail and/or elderly
• or to people who are carers

Here's what some AFI clients have said about the service:

"The advocate did the job that no-one else could, including my social worker and doctor. I am amazed at how much has been achieved in such a short space of time. It seems wrong that I am listened to more because I have an advocate."

"Very helpful. Even if you are capable of doing things, sometimes you do not feel confident of doing them or you feel that someone is not listening to what you have to say so it is good to have someone on your side."

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We are always actively seeking new volunteer advocates. If you are interested in applying please ask for an information pack.