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Doncaster advocates spread the word this Christmas about how their role helps keep people safe

21 December 2023

Advocates from our Doncaster team were among many to attend Doncaster Safeguarding Adults Board’s Safeguarding For You event held at the Eco-Power Stadium last week. 

Advocates Jane Byron, Josh McJannett, Julie Scrivens and Paul Robinson (front) from VoiceAbility’s Doncaster team at the Safeguarding For You event at the Eco-Power Stadium.

The community event was an opportunity for members of the public and professionals to find out about safeguarding in Doncaster, and included speakers with lived experience, a safeguarding treasure hunt and a Christmas choir. 

Our advocates spoke about their role providing a free advocacy service in Doncaster, which includes support for people who have been detained under the Mental Health Act and people deprived of their liberty in a care home or hospital, as well as for decisions about care and support. 

Staff explained how an advocate is an independent professional who is on the side of their client, and how this independence can be vital when spotting and raising safeguarding concerns. 

Doncaster team leader, Trevor Haughey said: For me, advocacy in safeguarding is key for people to be supported and have their voice heard in what can be a very difficult and distressing period of their lives.”

Advocates help to ensure that the person is listened to, and that safeguarding does not become a process that happens to people.

Trevor added, As a team, we’re very passionate about making sure people are listened to and have their rights protected.”