We have been providing advocacy support to the residents of West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute for over 20 years.
Initially focusing on those with a mental health issue, learning disability and older people, in hospital, care homes and in the community, our service has grown to cover a wide range of individual need.
Our independent advocates are rights based – your role will be to offer information (but not advice) and support to assist clients in exploring options and making informed decisions about their lives. You will do this by researching information and familiarising yourself with people’s rights. As an independent advocate your role will include enabling the individual to be heard – either through speaking on their behalf or by enabling them to do so themselves and to support their rights.
The advocate’s focus is the person, their wishes and issues, views and rights.
The successful candidate will be able to form positive relationships with those vulnerable adults in need and with other professionals and services; from NHS staff, to Police and Criminal Justice staff, Psychiatrists, Housing providers and Social Workers and all other professionals who become involved in someone’s life. You will support the individuals to navigate this world, be heard and to feel heard and to have their rights respected. With the support of the wider organisation and experienced colleagues you will receive a full induction. You will be asked to manage a caseload and to be flexible in your approach.
The successful candidate will have a commitment to upholding individuals’ rights, a willingness to learn, be non judgemental and have the interpersonal skills to develop trust and leave the individual “feeling heard” and respected, whatever their views or perspective.
Independent advocates are expected to recognise and maintain professional boundaries and have the ability to prioritise and work to deadlines as well as working on one’s initiative and as part of a team.
LAAS core hours of work are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but some flexibility may be required. Our head office is in Dumbarton.
Part time or full time or flexible (minimum 15 hrs- maximum 35 hours p.w.) are available and to be agreed with the successful candidates. The posts will cover the West Dunbartonshire area with travel to Helensburgh and South East Argyll, Glasgow and occasionally Mid Argyll required.
Closing Date for applications is Monday 17th April 2023 at 9am
Interviews to take place Thursday 27th April
Further information on the post can be found on our website:
laas.org.uk/2023/vacancy-march-2023-advocacy-workers-west-dunbartonshire-and-se-argyll
To Apply, please send completed application form to admin@laas.org.uk