Rethink Advocacy Service

The Barnsley advocacy service works with people who need support in making choices on the health care they receive.

Our expert advocates offer a range of services, all aimed at helping people to understand decisions that affect their treatment and support, and get the chance to have their views and wishes represented., heard and utilised when decisions are made about them.

Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy
When someone is deemed to lack the mental capacity to make certain decisions according to the Mental Capacity Act 2005, we can support them to understand their situation and make choices about the next steps.

Paid Relevant Person's Representation
If a person is subject to a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguarding authorisation in a hospital or care home, it means decisions are made about their care without their consent. If they have no appropriate family or friend willing to act as their formal representative, our advocacy team step in as a Paid Relevant Person’s Representative.

Independent Care Act Advocacy
The Care Act 2014 places a duty on local authorities to ensure someone is at the centre of decision making around their care and support needs. Where the person has no one to support them in these processes, a care act advocate will promote a person’s wellbeing and independence. They will be able to assist with:

  • A needs assessment
  • A carer’s assessment
  • The preparation of a care and support or support plan
  • A review of a care and support or support plan
  • A safeguarding adult enquiry
  • A safeguarding adult review

Independent Mental Health Advocacy
If someone is detained under the Mental Health Act in the Borough of Barnsley, or subject to a community treatment order or guardianship order, an advocate can explain their rights. If someone is accessing mental health services but are not on a section of the mental health act, they may still qualify for one of our other advocacy services.

Community Advocacy
A community advocate works with people who find it challenging to explain what they want to happen regarding their care, or needs help understanding the decisions being made around them. To qualify for community advocacy you must be aged 18+, live in the Borough of Barnsley and identify with one of the following:

  • Mental health symptoms or diagnosis
  • Physical or sensory disability
  • Autism
  • Learning disability
  • An older person (65+)

Accessing the service

Opening Hours:  Mon - Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm                     Sat and Sun: Closed

Updated:  February 2025

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