Update from Powys Advocacy Network

The Powys Advocacy Network held a full day workshop recently on 7 September 2017 to work co-productively on discussing the strategy and next steps for commissioning Independent Advocacy as per the Social Services and Well-being (2016) Act. We looked at a cross cutting advocacy strategy to meet Part 10 of the Act. However, we also committed to exploring the needs around self-advocacy, informal, collective, peer, individual, independent volunteer, formal and independent advocacy needs for the people of Powys. There was a genuine willingness and offer to work collaboratively with statutory colleagues in the development of Advocacy related commissioning.

A paper has been produced for the Regional Partnership Board (next Board meeting on 3rd October) as a result of our recent network meeting, and asks for "Approval" to proceed with a co-produced Powys Advocacy Strategy which supports a whole system approach to the provision of advocacy in Powys.

This paper (and direction), once approved by the Board, will be widely circulated. The content very much reflects what was agreed in next steps from the Powys Advocacy Network workshop. During this session, we looked at timescales and we are asking for approval of this timetable from the Regional Partnership Board which will allow us greater time and flexibility in working jointly on the strategy and commissioning process.

The Regulation and Inspection of Social Services (RISCA) has mandated that Independent Advocacy services will become a regulated service. It is envisaged that the regulations will be implemented from April 2019 following which any Professional Advocacy services delivering functions under the Act will need to be regulated. It is proposed that the strategy and commissioning process will align with the RISCA timescales.

Please contact us on 01597 822191 or email Freda.Lacey@pavo.org.uk if you have any questions in relation to the Powys Advocacy Network, the process and/or wish to be involved.