PART 6Requirements on service providers as to the standard of advocacy to be provided
Service standards16.
(1)
The service provider must ensure that advocacy is provided in a way which—
(a)
enables individuals to represent their views and to have those views represented; and
(b)
protects, promotes and maintains the safety and well-being of individuals.
(2)
The service provider must ensure that advocacy is provided to each individual in accordance with the individual's advocacy plan.
(3)
The service provider must ensure that the advocacy is provided in a way which—
(a)
maintains good personal and professional relationships with individuals and staff; and
(b)
encourages and assists staff to maintain good personal and professional relationships with individuals.
(4)
If, as a result of a change in the individual's circumstances, the service provider is no longer able to meet those needs, even after making any reasonable adjustments, the provider must immediately give written notification of this to the individual, any representative and the service commissioner.
(5)
The service provider must consider whether an individual has needs for legal or other specialist advice or assistance and take all reasonable steps to obtain that advice or assistance.