Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

Some individuals have been deprived of their liberty following a decision that certain aspects of their care and living arrangements—such as being moved from independent accommodation into a care home—are in their best interest and necessary to keep them safe. These people are legally entitled to have support from an RPR. An RPR may be a family member, but if this is not an option then a VoiceAbility RPR can be appointed.

The volunteer provides support to the advocate in various ways as outlined below.

• Visiting clients to ensure they are getting the right care, support and being treated fairly
• Conducting visits in addition to the paid RPR advocate’s visits
• Keeping detailed notes and records of interactions with clients and care facility staff
• Helping to ensure the client is receiving the best care, in line with their wishes
• Alerting the advocate to any concerns regarding the client or their treatment
• Building professional relationships with the Care Home Staff
• Recording activity on our case management system
• Promoting our services and VoiceAbility
• Helping to make a difference to someone’s life

Skills

• Must be aged 18 years or older 
• Good communication skills – written, verbal and non-verbal 
• Empathy and patience when meeting with our clients 
• A knowledge of, or interest in, Deprivation of Liberty safeguards (DOLs) and other relevant legislation
• A basic level of IT literacy, training will be provided on specialist software use 
• Accuracy and attention to detail 
  
• Ability to manage own time and prioritise workload 
• Ability to volunteer independently and as part of a team 
• A commitment to the aims, vision and values of VoiceAbility