Yes, an important part of our role is to advocate on behalf of the person receiving treatment, according to their wishes, making sure their voice gets heard.

We understand that sometimes a person receiving treatment may feel as if issues of significance to him or her are not receiving adequate attention.

Worrying about personal issues may have a considerable impact on the quality of their hospital stay or experience of treatment.  The CVP therefore sees its advocacy role as extremely important and works to ensure that the views and wishes of the person being treated are heard.

Community Visitors visit Mental Health approved facilities on a weekly basis and Disability services either monthly or on a quarterly basis depending on the facility type.

Community visitors panels visit at least once every six months.

The least restrictive alternative is the principle that underpins the way services operate. This means that people must receive the least restrictive or least intrusive treatment in the least restrictive environment.

The least restrictive alternative principle is enshrined in each piece of legislation that the CVP oversight.

It also means that the person receiving treatment should be consulted (as far as circumstances permit) about their treatment and care.

Providing the least restrictive alternative is very important, as our goal is to ensure that the person receiving treatment is respected and protected.