Advocacy and Learning Disability

Advocacy is a critically important element in the development of effective services for people with a learning disability. It is seen by many as the critical link between theory and practice in creating a truly inclusive society. This book presents an in-depth examination of the historical, legal and philosophical contexts within which advocacy services have developed. The kind of professional and practical issues and problems confronting those running and using advocacy services are discussed, and the role of advocacy is examined. Chapters covering advocacy with families and with people with communication difficulties contain helpful information for practitioners. A survey of the development of advocacy services in the USA, Australia and New Zealand provides an international perspective.

Practical and informative, Advocacy and Learning Disability will be essential reading for advocacy practitioners and those working in agencies in the statutory and voluntary sectors who come into contact with advocacy services.