People across Scotland who need help navigating the social care system will benefit from new funding for independent advocacy, the Scottish Government has announced.
The £500,000 Independent Advocacy Social Care Fund will back 12 new projects designed to ensure people using social care services can understand their rights, have a say in decisions about their care, and access support that reflects their needs and preferences.
The fund will support advocacy organisations working with:
- People with chronic health conditions or disabilities
- Individuals with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease
- Older people living in residential care
- Unpaid carers seeking support or guidance
The Scottish Government said the funding will strengthen the voice of people who often face barriers when engaging with care services and ensure they can advocate for their wellbeing confidently and independently.
Alongside the new funding, ministers confirmed the introduction of a National Care Service Charter of Rights, created to help people better understand their existing entitlements when accessing social care.
The Charter will set out clear expectations, including:
- The right to be treated without discrimination
- The right to be protected from harm
- The right to be involved in decisions about care and support
- The right to access advocacy and information
Officials say the Charter will become a cornerstone of the future National Care Service, empowering people to challenge poor practice and demand the support they are entitled to.
A further milestone in strengthening rights comes with the introduction of Anne’s Law, which comes into force on 31 March.
Anne’s Law guarantees the right of people living in care homes to maintain contact with loved ones, a response to the isolation many residents experienced during the Covid‑19 pandemic.
The law includes:
- A guaranteed right for residents to choose at least one essential care supporter
- A legal presumption that restricting visits is likely to seriously harm the resident’s health and wellbeing
- Stronger protections to ensure contact is maintained except in the most exceptional circumstances
Scottish Social Care Minister, Tom Arthur, commented:
“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.”
Charities and care organisations have welcomed the legislation as a crucial step in safeguarding dignity, emotional wellbeing and human rights.
Together, the new advocacy fund, the Charter of Rights and Anne’s Law form part of the Scottish Government’s wider programme to improve social care, protect vulnerable people, and ensure that care services are delivered with compassion, respect and accountability.
Advocacy organisations involved in the new projects say the funding will help reach more people at critical points in their lives, ensuring no one is left to navigate complex systems on their own.
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