There are different types of advocates depending on the care and support needs of the individual adult, but in general they support adults to: access information and services; be involved in decisions about their life; explore their choices and options; speak out about issues that are important to them; defend and promote their rights and responsibilities and ensure organisational procedures are being followed correctly. Some advocates have to be provided under legislation (Care Act, Mental Health Act for example), but other advocates do not (for example those provided by voluntary sector organisations such as Shelter and Victim Support). Advocates can accompany the adult to meetings and / or correspond with agencies on their behalf; they are independent of health or social care services.
