At the annual electors meeting, Mrs Gillian Schofield gave a talk on her work with the Craven Advocacy.

Mrs Schofield spoke of her Advocacy work in an interesting and very sincere way. She said it was a charity funded from various sources and worked across the Craven boundary. The Advocacy Service has been run for 11 years. They are a listening post to support people in need, their main aim being to support and enable individuals to let their voice be heard. 

Her work is very varied. It can be something simple such as help with a telephone call or something more complex such as supporting a client when they are attending a Mental Health Tribunal. 

Gillian stressed it was not an off shoot of Social Services but a independent body although her work brought her into contact with care managers and often other members of the statutory and voluntary services.

 The Advocacy Service:

• Ensures your voice is heard.
• Listens to you.
• Supports you.
• Talks to others on your behalf.
• Stand up for your rights.
• Liaise with professionals.
• Help you find information and make informed choices.
• Help with difficult paperwork.

Craven Advocacy is based in Skipton on Water Street. People needing help can ask for themselves or ask a friend, relative or professional worker to refer on their behalf.

Leaflets giving details of the service are available in Doctors Surgeries, local libraries and other public places. They can also be contacted on 01756 799615