There are a number of different types of advocacy which are often
described in a variety of ways. The following list gives an outline
of the many different descriptions that are used and are by no
means definitive or exhaustive.
Professional
- Frequently described as the casework model
- Short to medium term involvement, which often supports people
to find a solution to a problem
Citizen
- Akin to a befriending role but with clear boundaries and a
highly principled approach
- Provided by volunteers over a long period and on a one to
one basis
Crisis
- Support to help someone have a voice in a situation that
requires a quick response. It is usually short term and aimed at
helping an individual solve a problem
Peer
- Advocacy provided by a person who has experienced a similar
situation. Often of great support to an individual but not
recognised as being independent or unbiased.
Group
- Tends to form around a specific issue and will often require
external facilitation and financing to exist. Frequently used to
promote self-advocacy within a group.
Self
- The purest form of advocacy. Providing support and creating
environments that allow people to speak up for
themselves.
Legal
- As the name suggests using the services of a lawyer or
ombudsman to support an individual.
Non-instructed
- Advocacy that is provided for a person who may lack the
capacity to make a specific
decision.