Working to uphold the rights of vulnerable adults

We are currently looking for advocates to act as Relevant Person Representatives (RPR's) to cover Kent and East Sussex for approximately 1 day per week (3-5 visits per day on average) on a self-employed basis.

The role of an RPR is crucial to ensure the rights of people who are deprived of their liberty under the Mental Capacity Act in care homes and hospitals are upheld; their voices heard and their views wishes and feelings represented.

The role is home-based, with travel throughout the specified areas above. You will be expected to visit clients on a monthly or six-weekly basis, making sure they are safe and well cared for and that their rights are upheld. The role is flexible, you can manage your own appointments to fit in with your other work-life commitments. This role would best suit someone already working in social care, or for someone who has a keen interest in health, social care and the rights of others.

You will be provided with training, supervision, and ongoing support from our small and friendly team.

We currently pay £25.00 per client visit with up to £10.00 per visit travel expenses.


Responsibilities and Duties

As an RPR you will work within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, you will;

Visit the person who is deprived of their liberty in their care home or hospital setting to talk to them, as far as is possible, to find out their views and wishes regarding their placement and care. You may also be required to call the placement for an update on a regular basis.
Meet with staff to ensure that any conditions attached to their deprivation are being adhered to.
Read the client file to check care plans are being followed
Enter a record of your visit onto our database
Report back to the lead advocate if there are concerns, e.g. if the client is expressing unhappiness at the placement
Qualifications and Skills

Understanding of the health and social care sector and Mental Capacity Act desirable but not essential.
Ability to use creative methods of communication with people who lack capacity to ensure you represent their view, wishes, and feelings.
Where it is not possible to obtain the views of the person directly, RPRs need to explore alternative methods of identifying the person’s preferences by reviewing files and talking to those who know them.

Literate, with the ability to write basic reports.
A non-judgmental approach with respect for confidentiality
Ability to be sensitive whilst maintaining an objective approach.
Able to communicate effectively with other professionals such as social workers and care providers.
Confidence to speak up on behalf of a person who cannot speak for themselves.
Access to a car with a clean driving licence and business insurance.

To be considered for this role, please send a copy of your CV with a covering letter outlining your skills, experience and why you think you would be a good fit as an RPR. CV’s without a covering letter will NOT be read.

The closing date for application is Wednesday 19th February, however, we reserve the right to withdraw the advert early should we find the right candidate. The first interview will be via skype or similar. Due to the nature of the work, you will need to provide references and undertake a full DBS check prior to starting with us.