IF you've ever felt as if other people were deciding what was best for you, or as if large organisations were not listening, then you'll know why having someone on your side can really help.

In this area the help is available through Lancashire Advocacy - a confidential, free and independent service designed as a way to assist people to get their message heard and acknowledged.

On Monday, it is the start of Advocacy Awareness Week, to let people know that there is help available for the times when problems seem insurmountable.

Some of the most frequent troubles dealt with by the trained volunteers who run the service involve care in the community, health issues, the social services, taking life-changing decisions, care plans and assessments.

Advocacy volunteers support people to enable them to get their views across, and to have them heard.

Co-ordinator Helen Thompson said: "That kinds of support can be vital, particularly when important decisions are being made about social care or health matters.

"Advocacy isn't about solving people's problems for them, or giving advice.

"Advocates are ordinary people whose aim is to help another person feel more confident in putting their views across, and gain more control over their life."

During Advocacy Week volunteers involved in the work will be on the streets to let people know exactly how advocacy might help them at difficult times.

For more information or help ring the Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Advocacy Project on 457611 or the Society of Asian Disabled on 604700.

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