So much for these rights

17
Rights and
responsibilities of
carers and advocates
THIS STATEMENT ACKNOWLEDGES the
capabilities of non-professional carers and
advocates. It recognises the contribution they make
to the support and care of people with mental
health problems and mental disorders. In the
majority of cases the caring role is assumed by
women. The caring and advocacy roles are complex
and the relationship between carers, consumers and
advocates can change frequently.
It may also vary according to the age of the
consumer. There are many issues that arise for
people living with, caring for, or acting as an
advocate for people with mental health problems or
mental disorders.
• Carers and advocates have a right to respect for
individual human worth, dignity and privacy.
• Carers and advocates have a right to
comprehensive information, education, training
and support to facilitate the understanding,
advocacy and care of those consumers they care
for.
• With the consent of the consumer, carers and
advocates are entitled to:
– have access to the consumer;
– be consulted by service providers about
measures under consideration for treatment
of the consumer or for his or her welfare;
– arrange support services such as respite
care, counselling and community nursing
facilities;
– exchange information with those providing
treatment concerning the consumer’s
lifestyles and their relationships with
others.