A single point of contact for information and advice about advocacy in Gwent

What was the problem?

Phil Robson, Chair of the Gwent Regional Partnership Board said: “Making sure that all our citizens are able to make their voices heard is vitally important if we are to truly transform and improve our health and social care services to be fit for the twenty-first century.

We know that the care system can be overly complex and not always easy for citizens to find and access the information and support that can best help them.

Advocacy has an important part to play in making sure that all voices are heard – and we recognize that this is an important service that needs to be available equitably, where and when needed.”

Our approach

Led by the Gwent Regional Partnership Board, with support from Age Cymru’s Golden Thread Advocacy Programme, there has been a fully co-productive approach to developing this helpline. 

Other important partners in this development are Age Cymru Gwent, Dewis Cil, Training in Mind, NYAS Caerphilly and the People First organisations within each Local Authority area.

Intended to be the first port of call, this free telephone helpline can be contacted on 0808 8010566 for advocacy-related information, advice and assistance. GATA is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm.

The helpline is staffed by a highly skilled professional team of Helpline Advisor Advocates, employed by ProMo Cymru.

Outcomes

Gwent Access to Advocacy (GATA) has made a significant impact on the lives of individuals in Greater Gwent.

Since its inception in April 2019, GATA has supported 934 people in accessing independent professional advocacy (IPA) or other appropriate services. This has been achieved through 1,207 referrals to IPA providers (as of August 2024). 

By providing a single point of contact for information and advice about advocacy, GATA has empowered individuals to navigate complex care and support systems. The service has ensured that people’s voices are heard, their choices respected, and their rights upheld.

GATA’s independence from local authorities and the NHS guarantees impartial and person-centred support. This has led to increased confidence and control for service users in decision-making processes affecting their lives.