Press release 29/04/2020
We are delighted to announce that Carers Federation has been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi). The QPM is the UK’s only independent quality performance mark for organisations offering independent advocacy; an essential service for people who need support to express their needs and have increased choice and control in their lives.
To gain the QPM, independent advocacy providers have to undergo a rigorous self-assessment process and policy review. This is followed by a structured site visit for NDTi assessors to meet advocates and the people they support. As well it being good practice for Local Authorities to provide advocacy to people at risk of exclusion, commissioners are required to provide statutory independent advocacy under the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, and more recently the Care Act. The Advocacy QPM provides them with a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring they select the very best providers.
Philip Kerr Contracts Manager North East NHS Independent Complaints Advocacy on behalf of Carers Federation Lt said:
“Carers Federation Ltd are delighted the dedication, resourcefulness and professionalism of our NHS Complaints Advocacy work has been recognised in the renewal of our Quality Performance Mark for another 3 years. It is an endorsement of the hard work of our Advocacy Team and their ability to adapt and constantly look for further opportunities to enhance our offering .It is particularly pleasing to note the areas of identified good practice. We feel it is important that the value of Advocacy is recognised in all quarters and the support that is available for vulnerable people. We do not take the achievement of the QPM lightly and will continue to champion it as a standard for all Advocacy provision. The assessment process was fair, engaging and constructive with all parties able to express this within an understanding and supportive dialogue.”
Originally developed by Action for Advocacy (A4A), the Department of Health funded NDTi to review and revise the QPM in 2014, working with providers, users and commissioners of advocacy services. The application process was streamlined to be as straightforward as possible, while retaining the rigour required to ensure that high standards are met. It is available to organisations providing independent advocacy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further information can be accessed and applications can be made via www.qualityadvocacy.org.uk.
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Notes to editors
- The National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) is a not-for-profit social change organisation promoting inclusion and equality for people who risk exclusion and need support to lead a full life. It has a particular interest in issues around age, disability, mental health and children and young people. Further information is available online at www.ndti.org.uk.
For further press information contact marketing@carersfederation.co.uk
Carers Federation 2020.