New funding for independent advocates will help people in need
navigate the social care system.
The £500,000 Scottish Government Independent Advocacy Social Care
Fund will ensure people can have a say in their care and advocate
for their rights.
Twelve new projects will support people with, for instance,
chronic health conditions or disabilities, neurological
conditions such as Parkinson's, or older people in residential
care and unpaid carers.
A new National Care Service Charter of Rights will help people
better understand existing rights, including being treated
without discrimination and protection from harm when accessing
social care.
Anne's Law, which comes into force on 31 March, will enshrine the
right of care home residents to contact with family and friends.
This includes choosing at least one person who can act as an
essential care supporter, with a legal presumption that
suspending their visits is likely to seriously harm the health
and wellbeing of a person in a care home.
Social Care Minister visited
Partners in Advocacy in Edinburgh to meet staff, carers and
advocates. He said:
“We are proud to support people across Scotland through this new
fund and Charter to access the right support and have their
voices heard.
“We know the system can sometimes be complex and difficult to
navigate so this is about ensuring there is someone to advocate
for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. They
deserve to have their voices heard and their wishes acted upon.
“The charter strengthens this commitment by clearly setting out
people's rights and expectations for social care, social work and
community health.”
Partners in Advocacy Chief Executive Officer Jess Wade said:
“We are delighted to be part of the Independent Advocacy Social
Care Fund, which will ensure more people can access independent
advocacy, better understand their rights and have their voices
heard.”
Background
A code of practice to support implementation of Anne's Law
regulations was published this week, developed in collaboration
with those with lived experience and care homes:
Anne's Law Code of Practice The
Care Home Services (Visits to and by Care Home Residents)
(Scotland) Regulations 2026 - 31 March 2026 - gov.scot
National Care Service Charter of
Rights
