OUR Advocates

Our advocates

When a person with additional needs reaches adulthood, they become a citizen in their own right. This means their parents no longer have legal authority to make decisions on their behalf, regardless of the severity of their disability. When a Local Authority places an adult in residential care or supported living, and that individual is unable to make informed decisions or provide informed consent, the Local Authority is often more inclined to listen to advocates than to parents.

RP Advocates provides such advocates to support these individuals. The advocates attend reviews and address a range of issues, including accommodation and financial matters. They liaise with the Local Authority or service provider whenever concerns arise about placements, day services, medical or dental care, and other related matters. Local Authorities recognise these advocates as representatives of the adult child.

Farideh

Advocate (since 2011)

Farideh holds a diploma in Child Care and Nursing and began her career working in a paediatric hospital in Iran. She went on to complete courses in accountancy, secretaryship, computer programming, and sociology before earning her degree in Social Care and Social Work in 2010. Since then, she has worked with Mencap and RP, supporting individuals with learning disabilities and further developing her skills in care and support. Combining her healthcare and social work background, Farideh is dedicated to empowering others and making a positive difference.

Phil

Advocate (since 2016)

Phil has worked with children and adults with additional needs since 2016, both as an advocate for RP, and as a creative tutor at Community Focus, an inclusive arts charity in Barnet. He also facilitates and edits the successful Dis-labled podcast, hosted by individuals with a range of disabilities. A qualified graphic designer, Phil continues to work in the publishing industry, designing book covers and websites.

Vicky

Advocate (since 2015-18 & 2024)

Vicky has been teaching and managing creative projects for children and adults with special educational needs (SEN) since 2005. She has also researched and published books on autism, including M is for Autism (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2015).

She really enjoys working with RP - especially being able to empower clients, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected. A large part of the role involves enhancing and broadening clients’ worlds through visits, trips, and helping them stay connected with friends and family.