National Housing Strategy for People with a Disability 2011 - 2016

important, therefore, to identify models of good practice and develop guidance accordingly.Given the existing resource constraints, consideration could be given to the development ofa small pilot project which could form the basis for a more integrated approach toinformation sharing.11.15 Where local authorities are currently developing these structures, they should bedeveloped in a manner which complements and works in collaboration with existinginformation and advice services and in line with good practice in information provision –which requires that all statutory agencies involved in the provision of housing and relatedsupports to people with disabilities should adopt a stronger proactive approach toinformation provision based on the principles of quality service delivery. 122 Further, thecoordination and provision of housing advice should be reflected within all housingstrategies developed for people with disabilities.Advocacy11.16 Advocacy can be defined as ‘a means of empowering people by supporting them toassert their views and claim their entitlements and where necessary representing them andnegotiating on their behalf’. 12311.17 Many people may require advocacy services at some stage during their lifecycle toassist with changing circumstances and life events, particularly those who do not have goodpersonal or social resources. However, most advocacy services in Ireland developed asservices for people with specific needs, and in particular, people with disabilities. In termsof housing, advocacy services provide a mechanism to assist people with disabilities, toaccess comprehensive and accurate information on the options available to them, andempower them to make decisions, apply for entitlements and be involved in policy making.11.18 Advocacy can be undertaken by individuals themselves (self-advocacy), by theirfriends and relatives (group/family advocacy), by a legal representative, by persons whohave had similar experiences (peer advocacy) or by people and organisations withexperience and/or qualifications in these matters.Citizens Information Board11.19 The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the national agency responsible forsupporting the provision of information, advice and advocacy on social services and for theprovision of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS). The CIB has a general122Under the SMI Principles for Service Delivery, Government agencies are required to take a pro-active approachin providing information that is clear, timely and accurate, is available at all points of contact and meets therequirements of people with specific needs and continue to drive for simplification of rules, regulations, forms,information leaflets and procedures.123Advocacy Guidelines (Citizens Information Board 2007).141