Self Advocacy for Carers

Caring for someone often means navigating services, speaking with professionals, and making important decisions, sometimes while feeling overwhelmed or unsure of your own voice. This supportive session is designed to help carers build the confidence, knowledge, and skills needed to advocate effectively for themselves and the person they care for.

Delivered by Lanarkshire Carers, this session explores what self-advocacy means in a caring role and why it is so important. It offers practical tools and guidance to help you communicate your needs, express your views clearly, and feel more confident in a variety of situations, including meetings, appointments, and everyday interactions.

The session provides a safe and understanding space where you can reflect on your experiences, learn from others, and develop strategies that work for you.

During the session, participants will:

·        Gain a better understanding of self-advocacy and its importance in a caring role

·        Learn how to communicate effectively and assertively with professionals and services

·        Build confidence in expressing their own needs, as well as those of the person they care for

·        Explore ways to prepare for meetings and important conversations

·        Understand their rights as carers and how to ensure their voice is heard

·        Develop practical strategies to overcome barriers and challenges

This session is designed to be accessible, informal, and empowering, with no pressure to contribute unless you feel comfortable. It aims to help you feel more confident, informed, and in control when navigating your caring role.

By the end of the session, you will have practical tools and increased confidence to speak up, make informed decisions, and ensure both your needs and the needs of the person you care for are recognised and respected.