Advocacy

alycatrow

Hi, I have difficulties communicating and about to pursue an autism diagnosis. Have managed all my life academically and professionally (not always easy or perfect but manageable) but found myself struggling to communicate effectively with the vast numbers of professionals/officials in my son’s life. I have disclosed needs but they are not understanding or helpful and seem to intensely dislike me. My son has complex needs and as ever a LA committed to failing him. I don’t have any cognitive struggles, but could really do with an advocate who can help me communicate with these people. Any ideas how to find such a person?

janer1967

Hi @alycatrow Welcome to the community glad you have joined us here 

I am [resuming you dont have any family or friends that could help you. I dont really know what to advise other than contact CAB or welfare rights or do a google search for advocacy services. You may also want to discuss this with your GP who could offer some advice

I am sure other people will be able to advise further

chiarieds

Hi @alycatrow - & welcome to the community. There is some info on advocacy on this NHS site. See: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/help-from-social-services-and-charities/someone-to-speak-up-for-you-advocate/

VoiceAbility is one that I know one of our members found helpful, but it's not in all areas. If not, try searching online for 'disability advocacy UK,' to see if there's an appropriate service near you. Also, depending on your son's problems, there might be a support group that could help, or point you in the right direction.

Or is it about your son's education? If so, there are some different resources. Hope this may help

Cher_Alumni

Hi @alycatrow and welcome to our online community.

In addition to the messages above, the Disability Rights UK website has a great Advocacy webpage with links to various services that could help.  

Do you have a better idea about how to find someone now? 

newborn

O.p. "an LA committed to failing him"  .......great phrase.!     

alycatrow

newborn said:

O.p. "an LA committed to failing him"  .......great phrase.!     

Thanks! .... It’s saying this sort of stuff that gets me into trouble with them though...

alycatrow

Thanks everyone, what a great reception for a newbie! Lots of avenues to pursue now thank you.

chiarieds

Hi @alycatrow - if you don't find the info you need in the links sent, please do let us all know, thank you. We're all here to support you both if we can. If you have any questions, please do just say.

gogigi

Hi the national autistic society has an online directory for many things including advocacy. You can go there and input your postcode and the word ‘advocacy’ and it’ll hopefully show you advocacy organisations in your area ❤️