Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance members say funding is down but workload increasing

A lack of funding for more than half of Scotland’s independent advocacy organisations means some of the most vulnerable people in society are unable to get the help they legally deserve.

The Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance (SIAA) made the dire warning after its latest report found 65% of respondents had either seen a decrease in their funding over the last 12 months or have at best seen funds remain the same in 2014.

Limited resources and increased demand, the report states, has led to the introduction of lengthy waiting lists and some people, including those with mental health conditions, being turned away as organisations struggle to cope.

Our research gives cause for grave concern about reducing access to advocacy for many of the most vulnerable people in our society

The right to independent advocacy, which includes giving people – particularly those in danger of being pushed to the margins of society – support to stand up for what they want and informing them of what choices they have, is guaranteed in the Mental Health (Care & Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003.

However most organisations have to prioritise people facing compulsory measures e.g. detention, community treatment orders or mental health tribunals, meaning those not subject to orders, but still in need of help, are falling to the back of the queue.

“Advocacy helps to safeguard peoples’ rights and supports people to have control and choice in their lives,” Shaben Begum MBE, director of SIAA said.

“Our research gives cause for grave concern about reducing access to advocacy for many of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

The report, The Advocacy Map, showed in 2013-2014 over 27,000 people accessed independent advocacy in Scotland, an increase of 8% from 2011-2012.

The demand is set to further increase according to SIAA, with the real impacts of welfare reform becoming apparent.

Already 87% of advocacy organisations have reported receiving significant increases in referrals relating to aspects of welfare reform.

Begum added: “This will put further strain on the already limited resources of advocacy organisations resulting in the most vulnerable people in our society being unable to access advocacy.”

Colin McKay, director of the Mental Welfare Commission said: “Everyone with mental health problems and learning disabilities must be able to access independent advocacy to help them negotiate support that reflects their wishes and minimise the need for compulsory measures.

“The findings show significant resource pressures affecting access to advocacy whilst demand continues to rise.”