When someone is unable to make decisions about their care or treatment—due to conditions such as dementia, a learning disability, or brain injury—the law requires that any restrictions on their freedom are regularly reviewed. These protections, called the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), ensure care is in the person’s best interests and as unrestrictive as possible.

That’s where you come in.

As a Volunteer Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR), you’ll stand beside people who may not have family or friends to look out for them. You’ll ensure that their rights are protected, their voices are heard, and their dignity is respected—helping safeguard their freedoms throughout the time they’re under a DoLS authorisation.

What you’ll do: You’ll be a trusted and compassionate advocate for the people you are working with. Your role will involve: • Visiting people where they live, usually a care home (and on occasion phoning the home between visits), to check in on their well-being • Listening to their views and wishes, and building a relationship based on trust • Writing short, factual reports about your visits to help the Local Authority monitor and review the DoLS • Attending meetings with care professionals to advocate for the least restrictive, most appropriate care • Working with solicitors or professional advocates to support appeals or reviews of the DoLS, where needed You’ll be supported by a dedicated team, but your role will be independent and impactful.

What you’ll need to succeed: We’re looking for people who are compassionate, reliable, and ready to stand up for others. You don’t need to be an expert—we’ll give you all the training and support you need. What matters most is your mindset, values, and commitment.

You are: • Someone who can communicate and relate well to a wide range of people • Committed to upholding the rights of vulnerable individuals • Able to bring your own life experience and unique perspective, adding diversity and insight to our team. • Based in Wealden, Eastbourne, Lewes District and surrounding regions.

And ideally, you’ll also have: • A full UK driving licence and access to your own car, as visits take place in care settings (expenses will be reimbursed) • Good verbal and written communication skills, to engage with clients and professionals • The ability to listen with empathy and represent someone else’s views, even if they differ from your own • A non-judgemental, respectful approach, with a high level of confidentiality • Basic IT and report writing skills • The confidence to work independently, while knowing support is always available • Personal resilience and good organisational skills, to manage your time and responsibilities • A sincere desire to support and empower people who may otherwise go unheard.

Ideally, we would like you to volunteer 10 or more hours a month, minimum for a year, but it’s flexible—you don’t need to commit to the same days/hours each week.

What’s in it for you? Volunteering in this role gives you the chance to grow, gain new skills, and be part of something deeply meaningful.

You’ll receive: • A comprehensive training package to prepare you for the role • Hands-on experience with a respected national advocacy charity • Regular one-to-one supervision and ongoing support • Opportunities to connect with professionals across health and social care • And most importantly: the chance to make a real, lasting difference in the life of someone who needs you.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re someone who believes in fairness, dignity, and the power of being heard, this is your chance to be a part of something that matters.

Join us as a Volunteer RPR and help protect the rights and voices of people who need a champion.

For more information and an informal chat please call or email Phoebe Searle – 0330 440 9000 / phoebe.searle@theadvocacypeople.org.uk.

www.theadvocacypeople.org.uk