M1 - Learner Manual

2.8. Identify client rights and needs

Why is advocacy important?

Advocacy is an important process that can help a client to realise and protect their human rights. You may be requested to support the client in exercising his/her rights. Examples of rights you could be asked to support include:

• The right to privacy and confidentiality;
• The right to respect and dignity;
• The right to quality services;
• The right to information to inform decision making;
• The right to choice and control;
• The right to make and resolve complaints;
• The right to non-discriminatory service; and
• The right to protection of legal and human rights, and freedom from abuse and neglect

Each of these rights should be protected and realised. However, people in care or custody can be vulnerable to exploitation by others and may not be able to protect their own legal interests. 

This may be due to lack of knowledge, understanding, mis-use of power and in some cases, as a consequence of unique vulnerabilities. Laws are in place to ensure that power is balanced with responsibility and rights can be protected through fair process. The role of the advocate is to know the law and to use a broad skill base, including effective communication, to assist their clients.