Government minister praises POhWER

12 August 2011
A Government Minister has praised the work being done by POhWER.
Paul Burstow MP, who is Minister for Care Services has written to POhWER chief executive Valerie Harrison saying that the Government views the advocacy service that POhWER provides as very valuable.
You can read Mr Burstow's letter here: Letter from Paul Burstow MP (82 kb)

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The charity provides highly skilled advocates to support vulnerable people who find it difficult to challenge the NHS and other services when things go wrong and to help people get the public services they need.
'We have 150 advocates who help people speak up and make their voice heard,' says Valerie Harrison. 'Most of the people we assist find putting together a complaint or a case too difficult to do on their own because they are emotionally exhausted, or have a disability or language problem.'

Paul Burstow wrote: 'Advocacy can be vitally important to many people at certain points in their lives.' He said the Government particularly appreciates the work done with those who have mental health issues.

Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland commented: 'I am delighted that the Minister has recognised the vital importance of POhWER and the service it provides to vulnerable people in our communities.
'I work closely with POhWER and know what a great job they do on a day to day basis.'
In his letter, the Minister said he is considering reminding health and social care organisations of their duty to use advocacy services. 'In the meantime I can assure you that the wider issues of safeguarding and representation of vulnerable people are priorities for this government.'

Source: POhWER

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.. advocacy can be vitally important for many people, at certain points in their lives

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