How it works
RP Advocates is a parent-run organisation supporting families with adult members who have additional needs. The group ensures equal support through three part-time advocates, who help with issues such as accommodation, finance, and healthcare.
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A management committee, consisting of parents and siblings, oversees the organisation, and quarterly meetings allow families to review progress and make decisions.
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Built on principles of equality and collaboration, the group ensures every family’s voice is heard. Families contribute equally to funding and work together to secure long-term membership for future generations.
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RP Advocates empowers families to provide the best possible quality of life for their loved ones.
Funding and Family Contributions
The participating families contribute equally to finance the organisation. This collective approach ensures sustainability and shared responsibility among the families.
Advocates and Befrienders
RP Advocates employs three part-time advocates/ befrienders. These individuals are highly knowledgeable in the disability field and currently include Farideh, Phil, and Vicky.
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The advocates are accountable to all member families, who meet quarterly to discuss policies, address problems, and review reports.
Management and Accountability
The organisation is overseen by a management committee of parents and siblings, ensuring advocates remain accountable. They report to families at quarterly meetings.
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Key responsibilities include:
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Reviewing advocate reports and service equality.
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Monitoring visit schedules.
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Discussing policy issues, such as group expansion or recruitment.
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The Chair is the first point of contact for any operational issues.
Finance Management
Finance is a standing item on the quarterly meeting agenda. The Treasurer, who is a parent and a member of the management committee, oversees financial matters.
Principles of Operation
RP Advocates operates on the following principles:
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Equality of Service: Each family should, where possible, receive equal support. In emergencies or exceptional circumstances, as determined by the advocates and the management committee, additional support may be provided to a specific disabled member for a limited period.
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Collective Decision-Making: All decisions on matters of principle are made collectively by the families.
Membership
Family and Sibling Involvement
RP Advocates remains a parent-run organisation, with active participation from siblings and their partners who wish to contribute. This collaborative structure fosters a strong support network for all members.