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Carly’s Advocacy Story

Due to my mental health disorder I gave birth to my baby in the mother and baby unit. When I was well enough to return home I went to stay with my family, rather than being on my own. But during this time the local authority children’s services got involved. They were only checking that me and my baby were doing okay, but due to my mental health I became quite anxious and stressed.

Luckily I was put in touch with an advocate of the Devon Advocacy Consortium. I was able to speak to them on the phone about my concerns and worries. The advocate was able to speak to the mother and baby unit and the children’s services to get answers to my questions. They helped me understand the situation by taking the time to listen to me and explain what was going on.

I returned to the mother and baby unit, and the advocate continued to support me in meetings. It was crucial to my wellbeing that they were there. They found out what my options were, and helped me understand these options, and how they might work for me.  The advocate also helped me understand what support would be available to me if I went home.

The advocate really helped me during a really difficult time. I was really happy with the service I received. Having the advocate there at meetings encouraged me to speak for myself.

For more information visit the Devon Advocacy Consortium page or contact the team Freephone: 0845 231 1900 Email: devonadvocacy@livingoptions.org

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