James, who was separated from his family at the age of 4, is now in his late 60s. All his life he suffered from a feeling of isolation and not belonging. He asked his carers repeatedly to try and locate his family to no avail.
As soon as Mavis, his advocate, met him and heard this, she made it her goal to find them. As a result James was finally reunited with three sisters, who were just as thrilled to find him! His most treasured possession now is a family photo album – at last he knows he belongs!
Mavis has also spoken up for James. When she learned that James was being taunted by his neighbours, Mavis contacted the Dept of Housing and proactively assisted James to relocate. She introduced him to his new community where he now feels accepted. James was delighted when he was recently congratulated by an inspector from the Dept of Housing as being a model tenant.
Mavis has been looking out for James for nearly two decades. She continues to be a loving and protective presence in his life but, now in her late 80s, Mavis has chosen to share the role with a co-advocate, Barbara. Together they ensure that James’s life runs smoothly and he continues to live independently for as long as possible.
