Nick's story:Encouraged and supported to stay mentally healthy and active
Nick has a learning disability and ongoing mental health problems. In the past he suffered financial and physical abuse and was assessed to lack the capacity to assess risks to himself and others in his everyday life so was subject to a guardianship order.
He was referred by Josh, one of POhWER’s independent advocates to George, an IMHA advocate, for support at core group meetings attended by Nick’s social worker and staff from the local social services authority.
George worked with Nick using Instructed and non-Instructed advocacy models. He helped Nick prepare for the meetings and create agendas to make sure he had worked through the questions he wanted to ask about the restrictions of the guardianship. George also supported Nick by meeting with the police, consultants, solicitors and attending his tribunal.
With George’s help, Nick explained to the solicitor that his lack of progress was because the restrictions were so severe and if these were loosened, he could grow and improve his wellbeing and become more capable.
George’s support at the tribunal meant the health professionals working with Nick, reduced the restrictions, changing the way they engaged with him and how they approached the core group meetings.
Because the IMHA advocate was able to work in a non instructed and instructed basis, he was able to put forward Nick’s wishes and ask questions for health professionals to consider when reviewing their practice with him.
Nick now has a part time job and is able to make plans to go out alone to do his own food shopping at the supermarket and to see his friends. Nick has also put together a care plan with his solicitor for progress over the next year.
This is just one example of how POhWER works with people so they are encouraged and supported to stay mentally healthy and active.
