Rhiannydd Edwards (2nd left in group pic), Independent Mental Health Advocate at Advocacy Support Cymru (ASC), Cardiff reflects on her attendance at the 2-day event 

Advocates from across the UK convened recently at the National Advocacy Conference* in Birmingham, held appropriately during Advocacy Awareness Week. Delegates heard from leaders in the field, had an opportunity to learn and to share best practice. This was my first visit and I was joined by fellow Advocates Carys and Huw from the ASC team. My expectations prior to attending the Conference included reiterating the importance of the Advocacy role and further training but I learned much more.

My passion for advocacy evolved initially from a previous job as a Support Worker and the desire to help people have a voice. There was limited influence in that role and I was not involved in decision-making. My current role as an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA) provides me with that opportunity.

At the Conference I learned from other Advocates about the way they worked which allowed me to reflect on my own work habits and practice, challenging me and taking me out of my own comfort zone. There was an emphasis on ‘being brave’ meaning having power and impact on clinical decisions and the bravery to stand up, knowing when to stand up and when to intervene. ‘It is important to get comfortable with uncomfortable situations’ was the expression referenced.

While all Conference content and workshops attended were valuable, I found the most inspirational to be the session delivered by Alexis Quinn** on Reducing Restrictive Practices. As a diagnosed autistic woman, Alexis shared her story of extended time spent inside wards which proved insightful as a patient and then subsequently when she became an Advocate. Key messages were to be careful about use of language and how that could lead to wrongful diagnoses and treatment not suited to the patient and a need for therapeutic love – the means by which the health professional is there for the client in the healthiest way possible to effect beneficial change.

The conference was a great learning experience, thought-provoking and of value not only to me but to those who attended. I am grateful to event organisers, speakers, fellow delegates and to ASC for providing me with the opportunity to attend.

One final point. I think more representation from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland would be helpful at future conferences, given that Health is devolved among the UK nations. More could be shared and learned for the benefit of all – Advocates, health professionals and importantly patients. I am sure ASC would be happy to play its part.

Contact info@ascymru.org.uk

*National Advocacy Conference 2023 Full Content – Presentations & Videos https://www.blackbeltadvocacy.com/2023-conference

**National Autistic Society – Stories from the Spectrum: Alexis Quinn https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/stories/stories-from-the-spectrum-alexis-quinn