They have been assessed against agreed standards for independent advocacy by the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi).
To gain the QPM, independent advocacy providers have to 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.
The Advocacy QPM provides them a robust benchmark to measure independent advocacy services, ensuring that service users are getting an excellent service, that funders are assured that services are being delivered as well as possible.
MindOut was commended on all aspects of the QPM, especially their approach to equality and diversity.
Jason Saw, Advocacy Service Manager, said: “The report reaffirms our commitment to developing and providing an advocacy service that is independent, professional and responsive to the needs of LGBTQ people with mental health concerns, keeping advocacy standards and principles central to our work and acknowledges the high importance we place on providing person centred advocacy services that are accessible, welcoming and supportive.”
A MindOut service user, added: “MindOut helped me to maintain my tenancy, I would be homeless without their support, actually I think I would have killed myself before ending up homeless. It’s a life saving service!”
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.”
For further information on the QPM, click here:
For more information about MindOut, click here: