This is Independent Advocacy Awareness Week 2023.

Ceartas Advocacy in collaboration with Learning Network West provides placements for Social Work students at universities based in Glasgow.

In recent times, Ceartas has welcomed students from both Strathclyde University and Glasgow Caledonian University, offering learning practice opportunities in areas such as:

One to one/individual advocacy

The student will provide direct advocacy support to individuals who meet the agency criteria for support.  This will include preparing for engagement with individuals to ascertain their views, contact with statutory and other agencies and professionals, and attending a range of meetings which may include Mental Health Tribunals, Child Protection Case Conferences, Children’s Hearings, Adults with Incapacity and Adult Support and Protection meetings. 

In this role, opportunities for interagency work are very common, and the chance to provide support to individuals in a range of settings and circumstances are integral. 

Collective/group advocacy/alternate routes into advocacy

The student will also have the chance to engage in a range of peer-support groups and activities organised by Ceartas, with the option to select which ones in regards to their own personal interest.

Case management system

The student will also use the agency database to record information as appropriate, with adherence to our GDPR & confidentiality policy, and with permissions sought from service users.  Where attendance at statutory case reviews is required, the student will draft and submit a report relaying the views of service users.

Working as part of the team

The student will attend weekly Practice Development meetings and monthly Team Meetings, and if available, will have the opportunity to attend external training.  Agency support meetings will take place weekly with agency link worker.

Shadowing a council officer

The student will also shadow a council officer as an interest visit.

For more information on our partnership with LNW or to hear about this ongoing project, please contact the Ceartas team on 0141 775 0433 or info@ceartas.org.uk