The role of independent advocacy in safeguarding adults during seasonal crises

Ruby Edwards • 6 October 2025

Uphold Advocacy ensure that adults’ rights and choices are upheld—even during the most challenging seasonal pressures.

Seasonal crises, including cold weather, flu outbreaks and sudden hospital admissions, pose significant risks for vulnerable adults in the UK. During these periods, individuals with complex care needs or limited capacity may face delays in assessments, restricted services, or difficulties in having their voices heard. Independent advocacy ensures that their rights and choices are protected, even during times of service pressure.


The team at Uphold Advocacy are committed to promoting your rights and choices. Our team provides expert advocacy support across Herefordshire, Hertfordshire andacross the UK, including statutory advocacy, SEN support, complaints advocacy and a full range of independent advocacy services for adults.


Why seasonal crises increase risks for vulnerable adults


Winter months and seasonal illnesses create unique challenges for adults in care or the community:


  • Hospital wards and care homes may experience staffing pressures, causing delays in Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) or Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS) assessments.
  • Individuals may struggle to understand or participate in decisions about their care, making independent advocacy essential.
  • Families and carers may find it harder to navigate emergency services or resolve care concerns during peak periods.

Independent advocates ensure that adults are safeguarded, their choices respected and their wellbeing monitored, even when local authority and NHS resources are stretched.


How independent advocacy safeguards adults


Independent advocates act as the voice for vulnerable adults, representing their wishes and ensuring compliance with legal safeguards. During seasonal crises, advocacy services support:


  1. Decision-making and care planning – helping adults understand care options, hospital admissions, or discharge plans
  2. Challenging inappropriate care or restrictions – ensuring DoLS and LPS procedures are followed correctly
  3. Monitoring wellbeing in care settings – safeguarding adults when staffing or services are reduced
  4. Guidance for families and carers – assisting in navigating complaints, care decisions or emergency interventions


Richard Morris, Director at Uphold Advocacy, explains:

“During seasonal crises, independent advocacy ensures that vulnerable adults are not sidelined. Our role is to safeguard rights, represent individual wishes, and support families navigating complex care situations.”

Seasonal advocacy services from Uphold Advocacy


Uphold Advocacy offers flexible and expert independent advocacy to address the unique challenges of seasonal crises. Our services include:



Flexible spot purchasing advocacy services allow local authorities and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to access support quickly during seasonal demand spikes, ensuring no adult is left without representation. Learn more in our spot purchasing blog.


If you are a local authority, ICB or individual seeking independent advocacy support during seasonal crises, Uphold Advocacy is here to help. Referrals can be made by individuals, the NHS, local authorities, HM Court Services and solicitors.


To discuss the support you need or make a referral, call 01432 345 748 or visit our contact page.

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