Advocacy is a way of protecting and asserting our rights.
We Are Entitled To The Following Rights:
- to make choices about our lives;
- to receive the social and health services we need;
- to be informed of our rights;
- to enjoy opportunities in leisure, education, training and employment. To be different and not to suffer discrimination;
- to make a complaint when something goes wrong.
Advocacy is founded on the belief that people are of equal value regardless of ability, wealth or status and are therefore entitled to equal rights.
An Advocate Can:
- listen to you;
- help you to plan any action you may need or wish to take;
- write letters and make telephone calls with you, or for you;
- ensure your views are heard by attending meetings/reviews with you;
- obtain information for you, or put you in touch with someone who can;
- spend time with you preparing for meetings;
- investigate alternative sources of support;
- increase communication levels between yourself and others;
- find out what your rights are;
- liaise with relevant agencies.
Contact Details
Children and Young People:
- Volunteers Offering Young People Choices and Encouragement (VOYCE)
Freephone: 0800 028 6977
Adults and Older People:
- Disability Direct
227 Normanton Road,
Derby,
DE23 6UT
Telephone: 01332 299449
Fax: 01332 365055
Minicom: 01332 368585
E-mail: info@disabilitydirectderby.co.uk
Office Opening Times:
Monday - Thursday 9.30am - 5.00pm
Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm
Disability Direct Website 
There are many other advocacy services in and around the Derby area and new groups are being formed all the time. The Derbyshire Advocacy Service can provide additional information. They can be reached on 01332 206505.