Independent Advocate / Relevant Persons Representative (R.P.R.)

Join our small, dedicated team working to support people in the care system to have their voices heard.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in health and social care, ensuring that clients’ rights are protected, and their personal choices are respected.

Matrix SDT is a local-based advocacy provider operating for over 25 years in Surrey and Berkshire. We are a small and supportive team, committed to ensuring that people who use local health and social care services -regardless of their physical or mental capacity - are able to direct those services to meet their specific needs.

A Relevant Persons Representative (RPR) works across a varied client group in Surrey or Berkshire, achieving positive changes for individuals over time.

This crucial role safeguards vulnerable people who lack capacity around their care and support needs, and who are deprived of their liberty in their best interests.

The Role:

• You will have a fixed caseload of clients in Surrey and/or Berkshire, visiting them on a six- week rotation. You will need to be able to visit he client in person across the county and be able to travel independently of public transport.
• Fixed, flexible hours (15 to 30 per week) to fit around other commitments.
• Working from home to complete administrative tasks - maintaining accurate records and writing reports.
•  Working with a wide range of vulnerable people often with complex needs.
• Working within the Mental Capacity Act and the Care Act, maintaining regular contact with your clients (Relevant Persons) who are deprived of their liberty.
• Representing the wishes, views and feelings of your clients, helping them understand the DoLS (Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards) Authorisation, and challenging authorisations where appropriate.
• Opportunity over time to work in other advocacy roles and gain qualifications in this profession.
• Generous salary and annual leave entitlement, pension scheme, travel expenses and flexible working.

The role would suit someone with a passion to support people who may have communication challenges due to their impairments, and need help to ensure their views are listened to. Full training will be given.

Previous advocacy experience or working with those who lack capacity is desirable though not essential, as is some experience or knowledge of health and social care.

Good written English and ability to communicate at all levels is essential.

Are you already a Qualified Advocate?

If you already hold an advocacy qualification, we may be able to offer a full-time post in combining this role with additional functions (with pay reflecting qualification/experience).