Advocacy

Having access to independent, accurate information and a range of options from which to make choices can enhance equality of opportunity and access to services. However some people are at a disadvantage when claiming their entitlements or seeking the services they need because of disability, social inequalities, literacy or language difficulties. Advocacy is a means of empowering people by supporting them to assert their views and claim their entitlements and where necessary representing and negotiating on their behalf.

One of the main ways in which the Citizens information Board supports advocacy services to the general public is through the network of Citizens Information Services, where information providers advocate at different levels in relation to difficulties with access to social welfare, housing, health and employment. CIB is in the process of developing an Advocacy Resource Officer programme to build the capacity of information providers in CISs to advocate on behalf of clients, from negotiating complex information to helping people through the appeals process.

Under the Citizens Information Act 2007 the Citizens Information Board has a mandate to provide advocacy targeted at people with disabilities. Developing an Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities, which was commissioned from Goodbody Economic Consultants and published in July 2004, sets out a strategic approach to developing advocacy services for people with disabilities.