Advocacy

Irish Advocacy Network

The Irish Advocacy Network Ltd is an, independent, mental health organisation led by people with personal experience of mental health difficulties. Their services promote recovery by offering advocacy, information and support to clients. Their aim is to enable people with mental health difficulties to self-advocate; in other words support them in having their voice heard, grow in confidence and claim their rights.

A representative of the Irish Advocacy Network visits St Peter’s and St Paul’s Suites on a weekly basis and can be contacted via the nurse on duty.

Irish Advocacy Network: www.irishadvocacynetwork.com

Consumer & Carer Council

The Consumer & Carer Council is a voluntary advocacy group composed of past and current services users, their family members and carers. It provides a platform that seeks to express experiences of service that will influence emerging hospital policies, projects and proposals.

Matters outside of this remit will not be considered. In the event that you require support, or admission to the hospital please contact your own healthcare provider.

For immediate support, the Samaritans offer you a safe place to talk at any time.  Contact Number 116123 or jo@samaritans.org

The Council can be contacted by emailing CCC@sjog.ie

Youth Advocate Programme Ireland (YAP)

In 2017, Ginesa Suite announced the launch of the first Independent Advocacy Service for young people in an inpatient setting in Ireland. The Independent Advocacy Service will be run by Youth Advocate Programme Ireland (YAP).

The aim of this service is to allow young people access an independent advocate, to ensure clarity and understanding of the service provided in Ginesa Suite and to enhance their participation in the service provision. This service will enhance the voice and participation by service users and parents/carers to ensure ownership and involvement in the decision making in Ginesa Suite. Engagement in the service is voluntary for all young people and their families. Information on Independent Advocacy and how to refer will be provided to all young people and families upon admission. The service will be available 1 day per week.

The Advocate will:

• Listen to your views and concerns.
• Help you explore your options and rights.
• Give you information to make informed decisions.
• Help you contact relevant people, or contact them for you.
• Accompany and support you in meetings or appointments.

Link to YAP website for further information www.yapireland.ie