Establish a National Advocacy Framework

Based on my observations and experiences, it is evident that advocacy plays a critical role in supporting the wellbeing of disabled people. Advocacy empowers individuals to assert their rights, make informed decisions and challenge societal misconceptions. 

A parliamentary committee recommended in 2023 that the UK Government should examine the case for a Central Advocacy Service for people with a learning disability and autistic people in mental health hospitals. To ensure that all disabled people across the UK have access to this vital support, I recommend the establishment of a National Advocacy Framework.

This framework would involve creating a centralised system for advocacy that is accessible to all disabled people, regardless of their location or their needs. The system should be flexible, allowing for a tailored approach that meets the diverse needs of individuals while ensuring consistency in the availability and quality of advocacy services across the country.

Key components of the framework would include:

• Clear, consistent standards for advocacy services that ensure all disabled people receive high-quality, person-centred support. These guidelines should be informed by the experiences and needs of disabled people.

• Centralised funding and resources: Secure dedicated funding to support advocacy services nationwide, ensuring that no one is turned away due to lack of resources. This funding should be managed centrally, with allocation based on need and service demand.

• Inclusive governance: Involve disabled people in the planning, implementation, and oversight of the advocacy framework to ensure that their voices are central to the process. This aligns with the principles of the Enabling Good Lives approach, particularly the focus on self-determination.

• Standardised training and development: Provide training for advocacy organisations to ensure that advocates are well-equipped to support a wide range of disabilities, with a focus on both individual and systemic advocacy.

• Awareness and outreach: Implement a nationwide awareness campaign to inform disabled people about the availability of advocacy services and their right to access them. This should include outreach to isolated and marginalised communities to ensure that no one is left behind.

In light of the new Labour government's emphasis on increasing employment among disabled individuals, this framework could serve as a strategic initiative. By providing personalised support and advocacy, disabled individuals could gain greater access to opportunities in the workforce, with advocates helping to navigate barriers and ensuring workplace accommodations are implemented where needed.

By establishing this National Advocacy Framework, the UK can ensure that all disabled people have the support they need to take control of their lives, assert their rights and contribute meaningfully to society. This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term wellbeing by empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and others.