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What is Citizen Advocacy? Citizen Advocacy refers to the persuasive and supportive activities of trained, selected volunteers and co-ordinating staff working on behalf of those who are unable to represent their own interests. Leeds Advocacy's working agreement
NO SOCIETY is healthy when large numbers of its members are excluded from its benefits and prevented from contributing to their own well being and that of their community. Many people are discouraged from participating fully in society. They may be unable to speak for themselves; unable to move independently; they may be ignored; or other people may make decisions about their lives, not necessarily taking their wishes or needs into account. Leeds Advocacy's objective is to empower those who have been kept powerless and/or excluded. This can be achieved in different ways - through self-help or campaigning groups, for example. Citizen advocacy is another important way. Those who need advocacy are put in touch, individually, with other ordinary individuals who can provide the time, energy and skills to listen to the other person's point of view, respect their wishes, and will stand with them to defend their rights. A citizen advocate is an ordinary person, but not an ordinary volunteer. A citizen advocate is unpaid and independent.
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