Support for complainants
The Council recognises that receiving appropriate support when making a complaint is important for some people. The nature of certain complaints may lead to some complainants feeling that they would like another person’s support to guide them through the process or to represent them. The information below provides details on the support available when making a complaint.
Advocacy support and representation
If you want to share your views with the Council about a service we provide, but need some support to do this, you can ask someone to act as your 'advocate'. An advocate is someone who can support you to express your views and wishes to help you to raise a concern or make a complaint. They can contact the Council on your behalf if you agree to them doing so. The Council will only discuss your concerns with an advocate after you have given your consent for us to do so. To allow someone to act on your behalf please complete the relevant consent form.
An advocates' role is to listen to your views and concerns and help you to explore your options. They can provide information to help you make an informed decision, accompany you to meetings and contact us on your behalf. An advocate should not give their personal opinion, try to make decisions for you or make judgements about you.
Professional advocacy services can be accessed through some organisations and charities. Friends, family and carers can also act as an advocate.
Below are the details of some advocacy services that are available:
- the Citizens Advice Bureau who can provide advice and guidance in making a complaint.
- if you are a child or young person the National Youth Advocacy Service can provide individual advocacy and arrange of information, advice and support to ensure your voice is heard when decisions are being made about you.