We wanted to share with you, those that don’t already know, the amazing news that Polly Patrick, Chief Officer for Advocacy Northeast Ltd (ANE), has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the recent King’s birthday honours list for her work helping people who require independent advocacy across the north-east.
Polly admits that the royal honour was something of a surprise and In typical fashion took no time at all in attributing it to everyone involved in the development and delivery of independent advocacy services, recognising her colleagues and friends, past and present, in working alongside her and supporting her to develop and deliver the service provided by ANE, to highlight the case for social justice, give a voice to the vulnerable, and continue to defend the role of Independent Advocacy.
Having been integral in the establishment of ANE and having been with ANE for the past 26 years, Polly said: “I’m immensely proud to receive this award, but this isn’t just about me, this is about the multitude of people from all walks of life who have worked so hard over the years for advocacy. It’s been a huge privilege to be involved although it’s been a challenging road at times.”
When advocacy was in its infancy, at one point, Polly was the only paid advocate in Aberdeenshire that was ably supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. Step by step, ANE became established, starting with three staff and now boasting a team of 16 plus 15 volunteers at its administrative base in Inverurie. The organisation visits people needing advocacy help across the region, from community to care homes and hospitals to HMP Grampian.
Polly explained “When advocacy first started it wasn’t always understood and it challenged some people. Advocacy is about social justice, making sure people are valued and that they have a voice. It’s about reducing stigma, safeguarding rights and protecting vulnerable people.”
“The overarching vision is that people who’re affected by illness, disability or are otherwise vulnerable can have their voices heard. Advocacy is highly important in achieving this.”
Polly went on to say that “The difference Independent Advocacy has made is in helping people understand their rights and having their voices heard, ensuring people are involved in decisions which affect them and have equal access to services. People should be seen, heard, respected and involved.”
Throughout the years, Polly has focused on the development of new streams of independent advocacy by securing additional funding for those people with problematic substance use, ensuring that a carers’ advocacy work stream was included in ANE core funding and developing an independent advocacy service for children and young people at risk of or subject to compulsory treatment orders.
This work continues to the present day with a new volunteer role, Community Advocacy Supporter, promoting independent advocacy in dementia settings, in addition to the ongoing efforts to ensure the maintenance of funding for other service areas.
Polly added that ANE were always keen to hear from people interested in volunteering with them and how it takes input from people from all walks of life to make independent advocacy happen. For further details on how to get involved please look at our website for opportunities.
We would all like to offer our Congratulations to Polly in receiving this honour and give our thanks for her enduring passion, commitment to social justice and the essential role of Independent Advocacy.
