Advocacy service update

The Council and Advocacy Orkney are pleased to announce the signing of a new agreement to ensure the provision of independent locally based advocacy services for adults from 1 May 2024. 

In a joint statement, both organisations highlighted the significant effort which has been made by all involved to reach this positive outcome. 

Orkney Health and Care Social Care Partnership Chief Officer, Stephen Brown, said: “I am delighted to be able to confirm that a new contract has been signed with Advocacy Orkney on behalf of the Council to deliver independent advocacy services for adults, and for people who are homeless or are threatened with homelessness. 

“Together we have worked tirelessly to reach this positive position and look forward to a reenergised and strengthened partnership approach to advocacy here in the county. 

“We do not wish to dwell on the past. We are looking to the future and the provision of a first-class advocacy service to adults within Orkney.  

“We thank everyone involved for their patience and allowing us the time to reflect and reach this point. The signing of the new contract signals the beginning of a new partnership, and we look forward to working with Advocacy Orkney once again. 

“Our thanks must also go to Citizens Advice Bureau in Orkney for their assistance in helping to fill the gap whilst we found a more permanent solution.” 

The contract for an initial period of three years begins on 1 May, 2024 and is worth £50k per annum. There is the option for a further extension period thereafter. 

As part of the agreement, Advocacy Orkney will provide individual advocacy which promotes the empowerment, protection and representation of adults. 

Chair of Advocacy Orkney Serena Sutherland said: "This new funding agreement with the Council will allow us to build upon the vital services that our advocates have continued to deliver in Orkney's communities. 

"Over the long-term, it will allow our charity to help more people – many of whom are vulnerable and at incredibly difficult points in their lives – by providing access to free, independent advocacy. 

"The reality is that we have only seen the need for our charity's services grow in recent years. 

"So, it only makes sense to put the past behind us and enter a new chapter, whereby we once again work with Orkney Islands Council to the benefit of the Orkney public."