Volunteer with us
Volunteers make a huge contribution to our work and help us to provide advocacy for more adults with a learning disability in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Volunteer Citizen Advocates are partnered with an adult with a learning disability and develop a one-to-one partnership with a strong focus on rights and choices.
All our volunteers receive induction training and ongoing support. You do not need experience of working with people with a learning disability, just enthusiasm and a commitment to helping someone say what they want.
Citizen Advocates help people with a learning disability to:
• Say what they want to say
• Make informed choices
• Feel more confident
• Improve their social networks
Volunteering as a Citizen Advocate can help you to develop your skills and knowledge in many areas, such as:
• Listening and communication skills
• Advocacy skills
• Awareness of human rights
• Experience of the social care and health sector
“Being Shan’s Citizen Advocate is great. We have a good time together. It’s been a big eye-opener. Our friendship works both ways. We ask each other how we are doing and help to keep each other positive.”
Becky Goodfield, Volunteer Citizen Advocate
If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to hear from you. You can download a volunteer application form here or contact Lucy Evans, Citizen Advocacy Co-ordinator on:
02920 233 733 or email: lucy@advocacymatterswales.co.uk
Mark and Paul
Mark had to go to hospital to have an operation. Paul, his Citizen Advocate, helped him to understand some of the medical terms, as well as being optimistic and positive, which boosted Mark’s morale. Paul visited Mark regularly in hospital which helped as Mark’s family live far away.
Now, life can still be difficult for Mark as he feels more vulnerable after having the operation and doesn’t like going out alone. He has a strong relationship with Paul. He's very supportive and it helps to have someone there when life gets complicated.
