Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about BIAS.

Who can refer?

ANYONE – we actively encourage and welcome self-referrals but any interested person concerned about the rights and welfare of any other individual can refer. Although many of our referrals come from third parties (Social Work, GPs, Service Providers), we never work without authorisation and permission from the advocacy seeker. If the individual chooses to decline our service, then no further action is taken and any data held about them is destroyed.

How do I refer?

We can take referrals over the phone, in person (by appointment) or in writing. For security and confidentiality, we would prefer not to receive sensitive or personal information via email.

How long does it take?

For receipt and acceptance of a referral, we aim for an advocate to make initial contact with the person within one week; it is usually quicker than this but, on occasions, may take longer. It is likely that we would be able to give an indication of timescales at the point of referral. We occasionally operate a waiting list and a referred person would be advised of this at the time of making a referral.