6th Nov 2020
Embrace Wigan and Leigh gains new Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM)
Embrace Wigan and Leigh has been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi). The QPM is the UK’s only independent quality performance mark for organisations offering independent advocacy; an essential service for people who need support to express their needs and have increased choice and control in their lives.
To gain the QPM, independent advocacy providers have to undergo a rigorous self-assessment process and policy review. This is followed by a structured site visit for NDTi assessors to meet advocates and the people they support. As well it being good practice for Local Authorities to provide advocacy to people at risk of exclusion, commissioners are required to provide statutory independent advocacy under the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, and more recently the Care Act. The Advocacy QPM provides them with a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring they select the very best providers.
Embrace Wigan and Leigh, Lead Officer Lynne Hamnett said:
As an organisation, which prides itself on delivering high quality advocacy services we are delighted to, once again, receive the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM). We believe that the external audit of our advocacy services not only provides our team with assurance that the service we deliver continue to excel, it shows our beneficiaries and stakeholders that we are committed to upholding the principles of the advocacy charter.
We are extremely proud of the content of our assessment as we feel that our efforts to provide the best service possible have been truly recognised. This has been a particularly difficult period for everyone, not just our organisation and beneficiaries. We have tried to think of new and innovative ways to continue assisting and advocating for disabled people locally and it is fantastic that this has been highlighted in the report. We will use the assessment as a platform to build from and aim to further improve our offer before the QPM renewal.
Gail Petty, QPM Manager and Lead for Advocacy and Rights at NDTi said:
“The Advocacy Quality Performance Mark is only awarded to advocacy organisations who can demonstrate that they are providing excellent services to people often experiencing challenging situations in their lives. It indicates that they have the training and policies in place to ensure people’s rights are upheld and their preferences are heard and responded to.”
Originally developed by Action for Advocacy (A4A), the Department of Health funded NDTi to review and revise the QPM in 2014, working with providers, users and commissioners of advocacy services. The application process was streamlined to be as straightforward as possible, while retaining the rigour required to ensure that high standards are met. It is available to organisations providing independent advocacy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further information can be accessed and applications can be made via www.qualityadvocacy.org.uk.
