Non-instructed advocacy happens when a person who needs an independent advocate cannot tell the advocate what they want. This may be because the person has complex communication needs or has a longterm illness or disability that prevents them from forming or clearly stating their wishes/desires. This usually takes place with people who have dementia or profound and/or severe learning difficulties. 

Because Non-Instructed Advocacy is a complex area, a separate document was developed to look at the advocate’s role in greater depth. The SIAA have produced Non-Instructed Advocacy Guidelines to work alongside the Principles and Standards and Code of Practice for Independent Advocacy.

Advocacy Service Aberdeen has produced guidelines for independent advocates working with people who cannot give instruction. Click on the organisation to download a copy of their guidelines.