Generic Advocacy

Mind in Bexley provide free independent Generic advocacy for people with mental ill health aged between 18 and 65, who live in the London Borough of Bexley whether on a mental health section or not.

We provide a Formal Advocacy Service, both in the community and hospital settings.

• The Advocate will work closely with you to provide any help you need to enable you to have a say in how you wish to be cared for, to sort out any problems and, if necessary, make any complaints
• The Advocate can also assist you to make any representations about the conditions which you may be being required to follow under the Mental Health Act
• The Advocate can also represent you at any hospital meetings you are required to attend such as ward rounds, mental health managers meetings and Mental Health Act Tribunals
• The Advocate is independent of Social Services, Mental Health Services, and the hospital complaints procedure and is free to anyone who has a mental health illness or who as had mental ill health and lives in the London Borough of Bexley
• The service we offer is on a one to one basis. The advocate works directly with the person using the service and not relatives or professionals, unless the client agrees for the Advocate to liaise with them. Will always represent the client's perspective of the situation.
• The advocate will direct you to the appropriate source of help (If you are on a mental health section please see IMHA page)

What the advocate does not do

• Provide Benefit Advice
• Recommend solicitors
• Give their personal view point.

Our service is available 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.