Specialised advocacy is speaking, acting or writing on behalf of the interests of a disadvantaged person or group, in order to promote, protect and defend the welfare of and justice for either the person or group.
We provide free specialised advocacy services to people experiencing hardship or who are vulnerable to disadvantage, their family members and carers that supports them to safeguard their rights, experience equality and overcome barriers that can affect their ability to participate in the community and access services. We act to protect their capacity to speak out and ensure that those rights are negotiated in practice.
How Wide Bay Advocacy can support you
Wide Bay Advocacy can support you to resolve complex issues or concerns and build your capacity to access services you need in the community.
Our model of specialised advocacy works to empower and support people experiencing hardship or those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, to achieve positive outcomes and make informed decisions when faced with difficult situations. We do this by listening and consulting; sharing information; assisting access to agencies and services; encouraging self-advocacy through empowerment and generally working with our client.
Get the right support for your needs
Whether you need someone to speak on behalf of yourself or for someone you care for or you wish to advocate for yourself directly, it is important in making sure your needs and rights are properly supported. Specialised advocacy commonly involves systems of support such as the NDIS and other government services but can extend to general public services and community associations.
How can I access Specialised Advocacy?
Individuals, their family and carers or service providers can refer directly to Wide Bay Advocacy for specialised advocacy services. Before referring an individual to Wide Bay Advocacy, consent from that individual or their guardian must be obtained.
Wide Bay Advocacy’s referral form is available below. Once completed, please bring it with you to our clinic or email us at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Your referral will be discussed with the team to decide if we are the most appropriate service for you. Due to the high demand for our specialised advocacy services, a waitlist is in place which is prioritised by urgency.