Mind in Croydon gains new Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM).

Mind in Croydon has been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi). The QPM is the UK’s only independent quality performance mark for organisations offering independent advocacy; an essential service for people who need support to express their needs and have increased choice and control in their lives.

To gain the QPM, independent advocacy providers have to undergo a rigorous self-assessment process and policy review. This is followed by a structured site visit for NDTi assessors to meet advocates and the people they support. As well it being good practice for Local Authorities to provide advocacy to people at risk of exclusion, commissioners are required to provide statutory independent advocacy under the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, and more recently the Care Act. The Advocacy QPM provides them with a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring they select the very best providers.

Richard Pacitti, CEO from Mind in Croydon said: “We were extremely pleased to achieve this accolade once more. Holding the QPM means that the people accessing the service can be assured of a high quality, professional standard of support.”

Gail Petty, QPM Manager and Lead for Advocacy and Rights at NDTi said: “The Advocacy Quality Performance Mark is only awarded to advocacy organisations who can demonstrate that they are providing excellent services to people often experiencing challenging situations in their lives. It indicates that they have the training and policies in place to ensure people’s rights are upheld and their preferences are heard and responded to.”

Originally developed by Action for Advocacy (A4A), the Department of Health funded NDTi to review and revise the QPM in 2014, working with providers, users and commissioners of advocacy services. The application process was streamlined to be as straightforward as possible, while retaining the rigour required to ensure that high standards are met. It is available to organisations providing independent advocacy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further information can be accessed and applications can be made via www.qualityadvocacy.org.uk.

Care Minister Praises Mind in Croydon

NDti Press Release

Mind in Croydon advocacy services has been awarded the new Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi). The QPM is the UK’s only independent quality performance mark for organisations offering independent advocacy; an essential service for people who need support to express their needs and preferences.

Local Authorities are required to provide independent advocacy under the Care Act, which comes into force in April 2015. The new Advocacy QPM provides commissioners with a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring they select the very best providers.

Minister of State for Care and Support Norman Lamb MP said:

“I want to build a fairer society with better mental health for everyone by giving people more rights and a stronger voice. This is great recognition for Mind in Croydon’s work to support local people and my sincere thanks go to everyone involved in this vital work.”

Nichola Harris, Advocacy Service Manager from Mind in Croydon said:

“We are proud to provide a professional, independent and confidential service free of charge to Croydon residents who are accessing or wish to access mental health services.

Undergoing the QPM review process enabled us to refocus on our advocacy policies and procedures. The award itself and feedback from the NDTi reflects the high quality of independent advocacy provided by the team at Mind in Croydon.”

To gain the QPM, independent advocacy providers have to undergo a rigorous self-assessment process and policy review. This is followed by a structured site visit for NDTi assessors to meet advocates and the people they support.   Rob Greig, Chief Executive at NDTi said:

“I would like to congratulate the whole team on a very well deserved award. There are golden threads running through all the work that Mind in Croydon advocacy does. Everyone understood the importance of confidentiality, diversity and safeguarding for clients. They are a really good example of how the QPM award recognises and promotes good policy and practice enabling all people to have their voices heard and live fulfilling independent lives.”

Originally developed by Action for Advocacy (A4A), the Department of Health funded NDTi to review and revise the QPM in 2014, working with providers, users and commissioners of advocacy services. The application process was streamlined to be as straightforward as possible, while retaining the rigour required to ensure that high standards are met.  It is available to organisations providing independent advocacy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  Further information can be accessed and applications can be made via www.qualityadvocacy.org.uk.

• The National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) is a not-for-profit social change organisation promoting inclusion and equality for people who risk exclusion and need support to lead a full life. It has a particular interest in issues around age, disability, mental health and children and young people. Further information is available online at www.ndti.org.uk.