Tammy lives independently in the community and generally copes very well.

However, because of her disability, her baby daughter Rose was placed in foster care soon after birth. Tammy treasures every moment of her access visits with Rose. So when the authorities recently tried, simply for their convenience, to radically reduce her time with Rose, she was deeply upset. She asked her advocate, Melanie, to intervene on her behalf.

Melanie spoke up firmly and insistently, refusing to allow Tammy to be "railroaded" into accepting reduced contact with Rose.

As a direct result of Melanie's strong advocacy, instead of having her time with Rose decreased, it was actually increased! Tammy was overjoyed.

Melanie remains constantly vigilant on Tammy's behalf to ensure that nothing of the sort happens again.

Being matched with a Citizen Advocate...

• Safeguards people with intellectual disability from neglect, exploitation and abuse;

• Creates acceptance and inclusion for them through freely-given relationships;
  
  
• Provides a powerful voice with no conflict of interest, to represent their rights, needs and interests;

• Provides continuity, stability and security through long-term relationships;

• Creates a wide range of positive experiences for people with intellectual disability to promote their wellbeing and opportunities for learning and growth;
  
  
• Increases power and control in their lives;

• Increases their social status;

• Changes community attitudes and promotes understanding of the issues faced by people with an intellectual disability