Hi there, I have the privilege to be the Volunteer Coordinator for AdvoCard, we provide Independent Advocacy for people with Mental Health or Problematic Substance Use issues in Edinburgh.

Scott Murphy is AdvoCard's Team Leader and Sarah Wright is one of our Volunteers, with differing professional backgrounds and experience in advocacy we all, nevertheless know how valuable our service is, both to the people who use our service and what you get out of being a volunteer here.

Advocacy is about speaking up for people and making sure they are heard.

Our amazing Volunteers give up their time to help people through the many challenges that they can face when dealing with the NHS, Social Work, support providers, Edinburgh Council, the Police, complaints, housing issues and in many other areas.

People are often not heard, dismissed, not taken seriously or their difficulties are used against them in these circumstances.

Our volunteers meet with them, listen to them and then help them deal with with the challenging situations that they are experiencing. This may be writing a letter, going to an appointment or attending a meeting to make sure the person's views and wishes are heard and taken seriously by the professionals making decisions about their lives.

Raising money through The Kiltwalk gives us the funds to thank and reward our Volunteers throughout the year and helps us to be able to show our appreciation for all the hard work they do, week in week out, come rain or shine (I mean there is a lot of rain here!)

Our Volunteers come from all walks of life, some are students, some are working, some have their own lived experience and some are retired. All bring a care and compassion for those who use our service. They are fab! Please sponsor us!

Cheers Paul