Social Advocacy and Guiding Principles
AMPARO Advocacy undertakes social advocacy by speaking out, acting and writing with minimum conflict of interest, on behalf of the sincerely perceived interests of a disadvantaged person or group to defend, protect and promote their welfare and justice.
AMPARO Advocacy’s work is guided by the principles of human rights, social justice and inclusive living.
The way we do advocacy is based on the elements of social advocacy:
- Taking positive, ethical action
- Being on the side of someone who is vulnerable
- Understanding the position and vulnerability of the person
- Remaining loyal and accountable over time
- Being independent with minimised conflicts of interest
- Focusing on the fundamental needs, welfare and best interests of the person
- Doing advocacy with vigour and a sense of urgency
- Being independent with minimised conflicts of interest
- Focusing on the fundamental needs, welfare and best interests of the person
- Doing advocacy with vigour and a sense of urgency.
Independent social advocacy is NOT:
- Case management: Case management is about coordinating the broad provision of services. While case managers can and sometimes do challenge service systems, potential or real conflicts of interests tend to limit this important work.
- Mediation: The advocate’s role is not that of a mediator, they are not impartial, but clearly on the side of the person with a disability and safeguarding their rights and interests.
- Service provision: Individual advocacy whilst working directly with individuals is different from service provision. AMPARO Advocacy does not provide or coordinate services, our role is to influence those whose business it is to provide appropriate and timely supports, services and information as necessary.
