What Is Citizen Advocacy — And Who Is It For?
At Citizen Advocacy Auckland, we often hear the question:
“So what exactly is citizen advocacy?”
The answer is simple — and powerful.
Citizen Advocacy is about one person standing beside another. It’s a long-term, one-to-one relationship where a volunteer advocate is matched with a person with an intellectual disability, to offer friendship, protection, and support in everyday life.
It’s not a paid service. It’s not a caseworker.
It’s a committed, personal relationship — built on trust and respect.
🤝 A Relationship, Not a Service
Advocates are ordinary people from the community.
They aren’t legal experts or social workers — they’re people who care, and who are willing to be in someone’s corner.
Once matched, the advocate gets to know the person they support. They listen. They notice what’s happening — and what’s missing. They might speak up when needed, help them navigate challenges, or just be a steady, trusted presence.
Some advocacy relationships last years — even decades.
It’s about being there, through the ups and downs.
🧠 Who Is Citizen Advocacy For?
Our programme is for people with intellectual disabilities who are at risk of being:
- Isolated or disconnected from community life
- Taken advantage of or unheard
- Left out of decisions that affect them
- Lacking natural supports (like friends, family, or allies)
They may not be receiving the help they need — or may not even realise what they could ask for. That’s where advocacy makes a difference.
🧭 Signs Someone Might Need Advocacy Support
You might know someone who:
- Lives alone or in care and doesn’t have any visitors
- Has trouble understanding decisions being made about them
- Seems to always say “yes” without knowing what they’re agreeing to
- Has been excluded from school, work, or community events
- Is being moved between services without explanation
- Has no family involved or anyone looking out for them
If this sounds familiar — advocacy could help.
💡 Could You or Someone You Know Benefit?
Citizen Advocacy is about making sure no one is left to face the world alone.
Whether you’re a friend, family member, teacher, support worker, or someone looking for support yourself — we’re here to talk.
Referring someone is simple. Just contact us — we’ll guide you through the process with warmth and care.
🔗 Want to know how referral works? Read more here →
🔗 Interested in becoming an advocate? Start here →
