NEWSROOM

The new contract will commence in October 2026 and will ensure eligible adults across the Borough continue to have access to free, independent and confidential advocacy services when they need it most.

POhWER is an independent charity that helps people who may find it difficult to have their voice heard due to disability, illness, mental health needs or other challenges. Their trained advocates support individuals to understand their rights, make informed choices and be involved in decisions that affect their lives.

The organisation has a strong track record of delivering advocacy services in Telford and Wrekin and will continue supporting residents under the new contract arrangements.

Under the new agreement, two existing statutory advocacy services have been brought together into a single integrated service. The contract combines the existing Care Act and Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy services with Independent Health Complaints Advocacy, while maintaining existing referral pathways for service users and professionals.

The service helps people understand their rights, express their views and take part in decisions about their care, health and support. It is available for eligible people aged 16 and over who have substantial difficulty engaging with relevant processes, or who lack the mental capacity to do so. It also supports individuals subject to deprivation of liberty arrangements who do not have an appropriate person to represent their interests.

The service is expected to support between 100 and 150 people each year, who may otherwise not have received such support.

The contract includes: 

• Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA), including Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) and Relevant Person's Representative (RPR) services; 

• Care Act Independent Advocacy; and 

• Independent Health Complaints Advocacy.
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Councillor Paul Watling, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Independent Living, said:  

"Advocacy provides vital support for people who may find it difficult to participate fully in decisions about their care, health or support. We are pleased to continue working with POhWER, whose strong person-centred approach and understanding of the needs of local residents will help ensure people receive independent support when they need it." 

Craig Hargreaves, POhWER’s Director of Operations, said:  

“We are proud to continue supporting residents across Telford and Wrekin. Everyone deserves to have their voice heard, and our advocates work alongside people to help them navigate important decisions and access the support they need.” 

The Council remains committed to ensuring residents who face barriers to participating in decisions about their care, health and wellbeing can access high-quality independent advocacy support.