There may be times when vulnerable patients and/or their carers need assistance in gaining the help, support and advice they need. This could be for a variety of reasons, including when they are looking to access benefits, support, or health and social services.
An advocate is a person independent of the NHS and social services, who is not one of the patient’s family or friends. They will help direct the patient to gain, argue the patient’s case and help to make sure that correct procedures are followed.
More information about the local support services available to patients in Cannock are available through the following links:
ASIST general advocacy guide POhWER Advocacy Leaflet Staffordshire Care Advocacy Leaflet
Care co-ordinators from local social services or healthcare team could be another point of call for the patient.
Help can also be gained from services such as AGE UK and Diabetes UK, who can help patients find the help and support they need