Peer advocacy is an informal service provided by fully trained and supervised volunteers with personal experience of mental health services.

Our peer advocates provide independent advocacy, support and information in hospitals and community settings. They offer a listening ear to the needs and hopes of service users and deal with ‘on the spot’ advocacy issues that can potentially be resolved there and then. Typical issues include medication, leave, care plans and ward environment.

Peer Advocacy can be accessed by people using the services at the following locations:

• Inpatients at Brandon & Bradgate Mental Health Unit can expect a visit to their ward at least once a week.
• Mett Centre one morning a week.
• Stewart House one morning a week

Click on above units to find out when peer advocates will next visit.

With advance notice, peer advocates can also represent people at professional meetings such as Care Programme Approach Meetings and Ward Rounds outside their usual hours of work.

If you are interested in using our Peer Advocacy Service contact Esther Oldham, Peer Advocacy Lead, at LAMP on 0116 255 6286 or email estheroldham@lampdirect.org.uk

What our clients are saying about peer advocates:

‘I am so pleased that I met with LAMP when I did because I was struggling with trust issues and you were on my side. You have been there for me both times I have been in hospital and each time, kept to your word. I would not hesitate to refer anyone to your service.’

‘I appreciate you being my voice when I was feeling lost. I have my voice back now and am feeling a lot happier. Keep up the good work. You are doing a fantastic job.’

‘I found the peer advocate very pleasant and easy to talk to. He represented me in my ward round very well. I would recommend him to anyone who needed help or advice and would love to thank him for the time he took to help.’

‘Very nice to know such a facility was available. They were very understanding, reassuring and informative.’