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What is Advocacy?
The dictionary definition of advocacy is;
- Pleading in support of,
- One who pleads for another,
- One who speaks on behalf of,
- Support or urge by argument,
- Recommend publicly,
- Someone who defends,
- Vindicates, or espouses a cause by argument,
- An upholder,
- A defender,
- An advocate of peace.
There are 2 forms of advocacy Systemic and Individual.
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Systemic advocacy focuses on influencing and
changing the system so that people with a disability as a whole will
benefit. Systemic advocacy is also inclusive of policy and law reform
activities, representations to politicians, media releases, publications and
disability awareness training.
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Individual advocacy focuses on the individual.
Individual advocacy assists families to resolve issues, which are relevant to
their family.
Why is advocacy important?
- Advocacy can promote positive change to structure and policy, which will
be of benefit to people with a disability
- It can change community attitudes and misconceptions.
- It can assist people to gain access to resources and funding.
- Advocacy can make services accountable ensuring there is transparency in
their actions and decisions.
- Advocacy can help you have control over your situation.
- Ensures that you have a voice and that it will be heard.
- Ensures there is recognition of the rights of people with a disability.
Advocacy is an important means of support for people with a
disability. Advocacy means you are not alone and that there is
someone who will stand beside you to offer moral and practical support.
Advocacy Programs.
The Australian Government has implemented a generic
initiative - National Disability Advocacy Program. This program funds 76
advocacy organisations at a cost of just over $10 million a year. More
information can be found at the following link;
http://www.facs.gov.au/disability/ood/advocacy/coverpge.htm .
It should be noted that this service is generic in
structure and feedback within the ASD community has not been overwhelmingly
positive in that the service was unable to assist some families. This program
may assist in some circumstances and further scrutiny of the service is
encouraged.
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