Advocacy means getting support from another person to help you express your views and wishes and help you understand and exercise your rights. RIASS do not fulfil the role of statutory advocates, nor do they provide legal advocacy as provided by a lawyer.

RIASS can:

• listen to your views and concerns
• help you explore your options and rights
• provide information to help you make informed decisions
• help you contact relevant people, or contact them on your behalf (with consent)
• accompany you and support you in meetings or appointments if agreed that you are unable to do so alone

The support of an IASS advocate is often particularly useful in meetings when you might not feel confident in expressing yourself. They can:

• support you to ask all the questions you want to ask
• make sure all the points you want covered are included in the meeting
• explain your options to you without giving their opinion
• help keep you safe during the meeting – for example, if you find the meeting upsetting