The SHEP Advocacy Project invites people to become involved as volunteers and where resources allow, as contracted advocates.

The role of the advocate is to give time to listen to people’s concerns and work out, with them, how advocacy can support them or help them to support themselves. It is based on building a relationship of loyalty and trust and confidentiality. It can involve access to information on rights and entitlements. Our move to focussing on group advocacy facilitation as a primary area of work involves applying these skills in group settings.

Those who volunteer and who undertake contracted work with the SHEP Advocacy Project find that the commitment is fulfilling. They value being a member of a team of people with similar values. They also find that the regular team and supervision meetings are very helpful.

Working as an advocate with SHEP is an opportunity for people who have successfully completed SHEP’s Introduction to Advocacy course to put their learning into practice. It may suit people who wish to give something to their community through providing supports to others.

If you are interested in getting involved with SHEP as an advocate you would need to:

  1. Share SHEP’s commitment to independent advocacy
  2. Successfully complete SHEP’s Introduction to Advocacy Training Course (or equivalent).
  3. Prepare an application and, if shortlisted, attend a selection interview.
  4. Have shown an understanding and commitment to the values of advocacy and a commitment to working with disabled people dealing with inequity and marginalisation.
  5. Have the capacity to work in this complex and sometimes demanding role.
  6. Undergo garda vetting as required.