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What Is Lay Advocacy?

Recent case law sets out the role of the Lay Advocate in Family Court. A Lay Advocate’s main role is to support parents during pre-proceedings and court hearings. For many parents with additional needs such as learning disabilities, there is a risk that without the support of a Lay Advocate, they would be unable to fully engage in proceedings. In addition, there is a risk that their right to a fair trial (Article 6 of the Human Rights Act) will be breached.

Lay Advocates do not provide legal advice but instead, ensure that parents understand what is happening, can ask questions and can make informed decisions. Lay Advocates will meet the parent at the Family Court and stay with them throughout the hearing whether this lasts a few hours or a few days. The Lay Advocate provides practical and emotional support and works in partnership with the parent therefore we refer to them as our “advocacy partner” rather than our “client”.

Lay Advocacy is usually funded by HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS).

Subject to agreed funding by the Legal Aid Agency, Cope Advocacy Services is able to offer support to parents in meetings with their legal representatives.

How Can A Lay Advocate Help?

A lay advocate can play a crucial role by:

Simplifying Complex Information:
Lay advocates break down complicated legal, medical, or procedural information into simple, understandable terms, helping individuals to make sense of processes that might otherwise feel overwhelming.
Supporting Communication:
Whether it's in court, during meetings, or in discussions with professionals, lay advocates help individuals express their views and concerns. They ensure that the person's voice is heard, even in situations where communication might be difficult.
Providing Emotional Support:
Lay advocates understand that facing difficult processes can be stressful and emotionally draining. They offer guidance, reassurance, and encouragement throughout, helping individuals feel more confident and supported.
Ensuring Fair Treatment:
Lay advocates work to ensure that people's rights are upheld, and that they are treated fairly. In settings such as the family court, lay advocates make sure that parents can be fully engaged and understand their options.

Ready to Refer or Have Questions?

If you need the services of a qualified and experienced lay advocate, contact Cope Advocacy Services today. Whether you are ready to refer or would simply like more information, I am here to help. Let’s work together to make sure all parents’ voices are heard.

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Who Can Benefit From Lay Advocacy?

Lay advocacy is particularly valuable for individuals who may experience barriers in communicating or understanding their rights, such as:

Parents in Family Court:
Lay advocates support parents, especially those with learning disabilities or other impairments, in understanding legal proceedings involving their children. They help parents prepare for court, communicate effectively, and ensure they are fully aware of their rights throughout the process.
Individuals with Learning Disabilities or Mental Health Needs:
For those who may struggle to advocate for themselves due to cognitive or emotional difficulties, lay advocates can bridge the gap, ensuring that their views and preferences are clearly communicated to professionals and decision-makers.

Following receipt of your initial enquiry, a referral form will be provided where required.

How Does Lay Advocacy Differ From Legal Representation?

While both lay advocates and legal professionals provide essential support, there are key differences:

Lay advocates do not give legal advice.
Their role is to provide guidance and help individuals engage with the system, rather than represent them legally.
They are focused on empowerment.
Lay advocates ensure that individuals can make their own decisions by helping them understand the processes and their rights. They do not make decisions on their behalf, but instead enable individuals to speak up for themselves.
Collaboration with Legal Professionals:
In many cases, lay advocates work alongside solicitors or legal representatives, ensuring that the individual is fully supported throughout the process. They can also help solicitors apply for funding to cover advocacy costs.

Why Is Lay Advocacy Important?

Lay advocacy plays a vital role in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the support they need. By offering assistance without the cost of legal fees, lay advocates make essential services more accessible to people of modest means. This helps to ensure that vulnerable individuals are not left behind, and that their rights are protected in important legal and social service settings.

At Cope Advocacy Services, we believe that everyone deserves to be heard. Through tailored, compassionate support, we help individuals unlock their voices, enabling them to navigate complex processes with confidence and clarity.

What Cope Advocacy Can Offer You

Representaton

Lay advocates can support individuals in various settings, including courtrooms, where in most cases, lay advocates are given permission to enter the court room and sit with the parent. This reduces their anxiety and better allows them to calmly take part in proceedings.

Support & Guidance

Lay advocates assist individuals in understanding their rights, accessing essential services, and making informed decisions. This support is vital for those who may face challenges in advocating for themselves due to various barriers.

Empowerment

Lay advocates strive to empower individuals by ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed, especially in situations where they might otherwise be overlooked or marginalised.

Accessibility

Lay advocacy should always be provided free of charge to eligible people making it accessible to all regardless of means. Cope Advocacy has experience in supporting people who live with physical and learning disabilities and mental ill health. The people we support will receive high quality advocacy, tailored to their needs and communication styles.

Happy Clients...

Rebecca helped me in meetings with my solicitor. We were talking about my kids and I have mental health problems. There's no way I could have gone to the meetings without her. cos I was too scared. She's smiley and colourful so I felt like she wasn't judging me at all.

Parent - J

Rebecca supported a number of my clients both at court and in meetings with myself. Her down to earth approach and ability to calm parents who are understandably heightened is admirable. Rebecca is an experienced Lay Advocate but has also performed the Children's Advocate, Independent Mental Capacity Advocate and Care Act Advocate roles so has a good all round knowledge.

Solicitor - MM

Rebecca is a really experienced advocate and quickly builds trusting relationships with those she supports. Definitely my 'go to' person for all things advocacy.

TH - NHS Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner

I worked with Rebecca for a number of years. She really cares about giving people a voice. Rebecca knows that the family court can be an intimidating place and always let her advocacy partners know that they were not alone. She has a definite passion for what she does.

SK - Retired Children's and Domestic Violence Advocate