Caring can be both rewarding and isolating. Self-advocacy means making your needs known and speaking up for the person you care for. We created a short guide for Carers Rights Day to help you get your voice heard and advocate for yourself and the person you care for.
Understand your rights – Knowledge is power. Learn about your rights to access the right support for yourself and the person you care for.
Communication – Communicate clearly and concisely. When discussing your needs with professionals, be calm and confident. Bring essential documents, like medical records, to back up your points.
Build a network – Connect with other carers for insights and strategies. Check out our website for local support resources.
Assert your needs – Don’t hesitate to express your needs and ask for help.
Document everything – Keep detailed records of all professional interactions, noting dates, times, and key points. Written records can be crucial for follow-ups or formal complaints.
Services – Many organisations offer advocacy services to help carers understand their rights and prepare for meetings. You can use the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance’s Find an Advocate tool to find out what independent advocacy is available in your local area.
