The advocacy service in east Galway helps learners understand their rights, prepare for meetings and raise a concern about an education service. It is independent of the course provider and focused on the learner's stated wishes.
What an advocate can do
- Explain a decision or a procedure in plain language.
- Help prepare questions and documents for a meeting.
- Attend a meeting with the learner, where appropriate.
- Help draft a complaint or an appeal.
- Connect the learner with other services.
What an advocate cannot do
An advocate cannot make a decision for a provider, give legal advice or guarantee an outcome. Advocacy is not a substitute for a formal complaints or appeals process, though it can help a learner use that process.
Who it is for
Adults in east Galway who are using an education or training service and who need support to have their voice heard. This includes learners with a disability, people returning to education and anyone who finds official processes difficult to navigate.
How to access the service
Ask your tutor or centre, or contact the main office and ask for learner advocacy. A short conversation will establish what is needed and whether advocacy is the right response. Other support may be more appropriate.
Confidentiality
Advocacy is confidential. Information is shared only with your agreement, except where there is a safeguarding or legal duty. The limits are explained at the first meeting.