Cloverleaf Advocacy is delighted to have been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) for a further three years after demonstrating the provision of excellent independent advocacy services in line with the Advocacy Charter.
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 must 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.
Local Authorities are required to provide statutory independent advocacy under the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, and more recently the Care Act, and it is good practice for them to provide advocacy to people at risk of exclusion even where there is no statutory obligation to do so. The Advocacy QPM provides them with a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring they select the very best providers.
Suzi Henderson, CEO of Cloverleaf Advocacy, said: “We are absolutely delighted and proud to have been awarded the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) for a further three years. The feedback we received from the assessors, as well as from people who have accessed our advocacy services and other stakeholders, was outstanding. What came through most strongly was our unwavering commitment to advocacy, our shared values, and the deep sense of pride and passion that unites our team. This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone at Cloverleaf.”
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.
