How to Refer Someone for Advocacy Support

admin_ — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 02:08:18 +0000

Sometimes, someone in your life might need extra support — someone in their corner, standing alongside them. That’s where Citizen Advocacy comes in.

We create long-term, one-to-one advocacy relationships for people with intellectual disabilities who may be isolated, unheard, or at risk of being overlooked.

If you’re a whānau member, friend, teacher, support worker, or health professional, you can help by making a referral. Here’s how.

Who Can Be Referred?

We support people who:

Have an intellectual disability
Have few (or no) natural supports
May be excluded, isolated, or at risk of harm
May not have someone helping them speak up or make decisions
Are often not receiving the support they need — or don’t know what they’re entitled to

How to Make a Referral (Step-by-Step)

Reach Out to Us
You can call, text, or email our Programme Coordinator during office hours (Mon–Tues 9–5, Wed 9–1).
Phone: 027 625 7994
Email: citizenadvocacyauckland@gmail.com

Have a Conversation
We’ll talk with you about the person’s situation. You don’t need to have all the answers — just a genuine concern that they may benefit from advocacy.

Fill Out a Referral Form
We’ll provide you with a short, easy-to-complete referral form. You can also click here: Link to Referral Form

We’ll Take It from There
Once we receive the form, we’ll assess whether we’re the right fit. If so, we’ll begin the process of matching the person with an advocate.If it’s not quite the right fit, we’ll do our best to connect you with a more appropriate service.

Not Sure if They’re Eligible?

That’s okay. Give us a call anyway. We can kōrero together and figure out the best next step.

Referrals Can Come From:

Whānau and friends
Disability support workers
Teachers and learning support staff
NASC and social workers
Community, faith, or health organisations
Or anyone who sees a need and wants to help

Why Your Referral Matters

Some people go through life with no one in their corner. Your referral could be the beginning of a relationship that changes that — and brings connection, respect, and support where it’s needed most.