As the changes to social security benefits in Scotland continue to be rolled out, many disabled and vulnerable people need support. To ensure everyone gets to be fully involved in decisions about their health, care and wellbeing, and get answers to any questions they have, the Scottish Government have commissioned VoiceAbility to offer a free, independent, and confidential advocacy service.

Operations Manager for Scotland, Emily Johnston explained:

“VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. Our independent, professional advocates are based across Scotland and will ensure people are heard and supported when it matters most”.

What is an Advocate? 

Advocates are independent professionals who are on the side of their clients. They support people to know their rights ensuring they are involved as much as possible in decisions about their health and care or are represented when required.  Advocates keep information confidential, and their services are free.  

People with mental and physical disabilities, who might otherwise struggle to convey their thoughts and needs in discussions about their benefits, can access impartial help anywhere in Scotland by:

● Email: helpline@voiceability.org  

●Freephone: 0300 303 1660  

●Visiting VoiceAbility’s website and completing a referral form for themselves or for someone else who needs support: voiceability.org/referral