The provision of advocacy services for adults in Wiltshire will be discussed at the next cabinet meeting on Tuesday (January 16).

Advocacy services provide people in need with a spokesperson to help them understand their rights and ensure their opinions are heard.

This support allows those who might not be able to speak out alone, such as people with a mental illness or learning disability, to access information and have their interests represented.  

As a local authority, Wiltshire Council has a statutory obligation to provide residents with an independent advocacy service.

According to the report due to be discussed at the meeting, the demand for advocates has increased over the last ten years.

The report also indicated that the council’s contracted spend for the current Whole Life Advocacy Service will be £1,794,994.00.

This does not include unbudgeted spend for advocates to meet more complex referral needs.

This four-year contract, which expires on Sunday, June 30, has provided support for children, young people and adults.

Councillors will discuss plans for a recommissioned advocacy service for adults, whilst taking into account a reduced budget of £268,140.00 per year.

This service is designed to improve social mobility, tackle inequalities and further the understanding and integration of vulnerable adults.