Independent Advocacy Worker for adults over age 21

Independent Advocacy Worker providing support to people over age of 21, with a learning disability, are neurodiverse, or those experiencing mental or physical health challenges.

DIAS is seeking to appoint an Independent Advocacy Worker for between 21–28 hours per week (hours to be discussed). Rate of pay reflects 28 hours per week. The post is funded until 31st July 2026, with the possibility of extension subject to further funding being secured.

DIAS stands as a beacon for individuals and families who experience learning disabilities, neurodivergence, and mental or physical health challenges. Rooted in the principles of empowerment and human rights, DIAS is committed to ensuring that the voices of people who may be vulnerable or marginalised are not only heard but actively respected and acted upon.

We are seeking a passionate, skilled, and resilient Independent Advocacy Worker who is committed to breaking down barriers, championing person‑centred support, and working collaboratively with statutory and third‑sector partners. This role offers an opportunity to make a tangible and lasting difference in the lives of people who may experience exclusion, inequality, or difficulty navigating complex systems, by supporting them to understand their rights, express their views, and participate fully in decisions that affect their lives.

If you would like an informal discussion about this post, please contact the DIAS main office on.

Closing date: 6th March 2026

Interview date: Potentially 17th March 2026

Responsible To: CEO, Dundee Independent Advocacy Support

Location: DIAS Office, c/o One Parent Families Scotland, Families House, 20 Grampian Gardens, Dundee DD4 9QZ. The post is home‑working based. The successful applicant must live in Dundee to provide face‑to‑face independent advocacy support when required.

Terms of Employment

This post is offered at 21–28 hours per week, with set working days agreed in advance. Some out‑of‑hours work may be required; however, no additional payment will be made. Time off in lieu (TOIL) will be provided in line with DIAS policy. Annual leave entitlement is 28 days including public holidays, pro rata for part‑time staff. An Enhanced PVG Disclosure through Disclosure Scotland will be required for the successful candidate.

Purpose of the Post

The primary purpose of this role is to provide independent advocacy support to individuals with a learning disability, people who are neurodiverse, and individuals living with mental and/or physical health challenges. The role promotes a person‑centred, rights‑based approach, particularly for individuals who may experience barriers to communication, understanding information, engaging with services, or having their views taken seriously. The aim is to ensure that individuals are supported to have their voices heard, their rights upheld, and their wishes and preferences recognised and respected by professionals and services involved in their lives.

Focus on Vulnerable Groups

The advocacy caseload will predominantly involve individuals who experience heightened vulnerability due to learning disabilities, neurodivergence, or mental or physical health needs. This targeted approach ensures that advocacy support is directed toward those who face the greatest barriers to participation, decision‑making, and equal access to services.

Strengthening Voices and Upholding Human Rights

As an advocate, you will play a key role in amplifying the voices of individuals who may find it difficult to express their wishes, understand their rights, or challenge decisions that affect their lives. Your work will focus on supporting individuals to:

• Understand their rights and available options
• Express their views, wishes, and preferences
• Participate meaningfully in meetings, assessments, and reviews
• Challenge decisions or processes where appropriate
• Access reasonable adjustments to support communication and understanding

The role centres on empowerment, ensuring people are supported to take an active role in decisions about their care, support, and future.

Collaboration with Local Support Services

This role involves close collaboration with a wide range of local services across Dundee, including health, social care, education, housing, and third‑sector organisations that support people with learning disabilities, neurodiversity, and mental or physical health conditions. Working in partnership, you will contribute to coordinated, inclusive, and effective advocacy support, helping to ensure services are responsive to individual needs and delivered in line with human rights principles.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

Advocacy Casework

You will carry an advocacy caseload, promoting self‑advocacy wherever possible while also providing direct representation when required. All casework must be delivered in line with established advocacy standards, monitoring systems, and service objectives agreed with DIAS management.

Collaboration and Service Development

You will work closely with other advocacy and support services across Dundee, contributing to service development and improvement. You are expected to function as a proactive member of the DIAS Advocacy Team, supporting service planning and development and providing cover within the team and across the organisation when required.

Safeguarding and Professional Practice

You will proactively identify and respond to safeguarding concerns in line with DIAS policies and procedures. Accurate and timely advocacy case notes must be maintained using the DIAS database system, ensuring compliance with confidentiality requirements and GDPR legislation. You are responsible for managing your own administrative workload and ensuring all records are completed to a high standard.

Communication and Liaison

You will liaise effectively with voluntary and statutory sector partners and other relevant professionals to ensure individuals have access to high‑quality, independent advocacy. This includes working alongside professionals involved in an individual's care or support from the point of referral onward.

Identifying Needs and Outreach

You will identify and report unmet needs or gaps in advocacy provision to the DIAS CEO as required. Outreach work will be undertaken in a variety of settings to identify people who may benefit from independent advocacy but are not currently accessing it.

Teamwork and Professional Development

You are expected to be a supportive and professional team member at all times. This may include delivering awareness‑raising sessions to professionals or organisations, assisting with the promotion of DIAS, contributing to training resources, and participating in internal and external learning opportunities.

Meetings, Training, and Other Duties

You will attend and participate in staff meetings, supervision, appraisals, and approved training opportunities. You may also be asked to undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the purpose and level of the role.

Development Work

The role involves actively promoting DIAS and raising awareness of the value and impact of independent advocacy for people with learning disabilities, who are neuro-diverse, and mental or physical health challenges.

Liaison with Other Advocacy Services

You will build and maintain strong working relationships with other advocacy organisations, sharing best practice and supporting a consistent, rights‑based approach to advocacy across services.

Information About the Post

Essential Skills and Qualities

Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to the Principles of Independent Advocacy as defined by the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance (SIAA). A genuine passion for empowering individuals and upholding their rights is essential.

Communication and Engagement

Excellent verbal, listening, and written communication skills are required. Applicants must be able to engage effectively with people who have diverse communication needs and who may experience barriers to understanding or expression.

Teamwork and Relationship Building

The ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential. Applicants must be able to develop and maintain positive working relationships with advocacy partners, families, carers, and professionals across health, social care, and the third sector.

Safeguarding and Professional Conduct

Applicants must be able to identify safeguarding concerns and respond appropriately. Strong IT skills are required to maintain accurate records in line with DIAS policy and GDPR requirements. The role involves researching complex issues using relevant policy and guidance to support effective advocacy outcomes.

Organisation and Adaptability

The role requires strong organisational skills, the ability to manage changing workloads, and the capacity to meet deadlines. Applicants must be able to work remotely while maintaining effective communication with the wider team.

Desirable Skills and Experience

Familiarity with Strategic Frameworks: It is desirable for candidates to possess knowledge of strategic frameworks and delivery plans relating to learning disability, neurodiversity, mental health, and physical health. Understanding these documents demonstrates an awareness of local policy priorities and approaches to supporting individuals with diverse needs.

Transport Requirements

Applicants must hold a full, clean UK driving licence and have access to their own transport.

Desirable Qualifications

Possesses a relevant degree or can show equivalent experience or an appropriate level of life experience.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From £18,345.00 per year

Benefits: Free parking, Health & wellbeing programme, Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Dundee DD4 9QZ