All applicants are interviewed by a senior staff member with the assistance of a SU advocate.  In the absence of an advocate then a set question requested by the advocate is asked of the applicant.

SCA plans to offer training in advocacy as part of its onboarding training program for new staff from April 2025.  Existing staff, service users and families will be able to attend these training events, which will be published on our SU/Family website.

SCA policy SCR02 “Advocacy” underlines the principles of what advocacy is and how it should be encouraged. We have agreed that outwith this guidance, SU should be referred to the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance, or their Social Worker.

We will publish links to local advocacy organisations on our websites and make contact with them to access any resources which are available including training. Any SU who does not have a representative and wishes representation will be referred to a local advocate or back to their Social Worker.

Our Shared Management Meeting (SMM), is held every quarter and is open to SU, families, staff and advocates. The dates of the next meeting will be published in advance on the staff, SU and family websites. Outside of these meetings SU or their families can give feedback through the website, phone, email, OpenPASS or via letter. In person feedback can be made during staff visits, spot checks, staff appraisals, training workshops open days or formal service reviews.

The office and management team will undertake advocacy training in February 2025, where we explore what we can do to achieve the plan’s goals.

We will share details of how advocacy has impacted the lives of people whom we support in February 2025.

We will share details of how we plan to combat loneliness in February 2025.  Areas under consideration are:

Encourage Social Programmes

• Set up or promote local clubs, online meetups, or community events that target people living at home.
• Promote local befriending schemes, where volunteers regularly call or visit.

Facilitate Access to Technology

• Provide training for people who are unsure of technology, or how to use devices for video calls and social media.
• Promote apps or platforms designed for social connection.

Regular Communication

• Friends, family, and neighbours can regularly check in with a call or visit.
• Organise group chats or virtual hangouts.

Promote Local Engagement

• Link people with local services, faith groups, or volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage participation in neighbourhood events like coffee mornings or walking groups.

Mental Health Support

• Promote counselling or mental health resources that are available.
• Run awareness campaigns about the impacts of loneliness and the help available.

Pets and Nature

• Consider pet adoption for companionship or encourage activities like gardening to connect with nature.

Intergenerational Programmes

• Foster relationships between different age groups, such as pairing older adults with young people for mutual learning and friendship.

By fostering an environment where individuals living alone feel valued and connected, we can significantly improve their quality of life and create stronger, more inclusive communities.

We will publish an assessment of the effectiveness of the plan not less than annually.