Role Play 2 - Representing the client

After your meeting with Alex your client, you have arranged a time to meet with their son Anthony as well as the client's treating practitioner. Alex has asked you to speak on their behalf as they do not feel confident enough to do so, for fear of not being heard, yet again.

The purpose of the meeting will be to accurately advocate and represent the needs, concerns and decision of the client, discuss their rights to choice and negotiate an outcome and some next steps to take which all members are comfortable with, and one that is most suitable for the client at this time.

The impression you were left with after your meeting with Alex was that they don't want to have the operation, and displayed a strong sense of fear about the implications of the procedure and perhaps fearful about whether it will be a positive outcome. The request for surgery was proposed on them abruptly and they were pushed and pressured towards a decision that they weren't comfortable with. You feel that the client needs to be better informed about the requirements of the procedure in order for them to make a choice that is right for them.

Additional participant instructions - The treating doctor

The specialist report and recommendation strongly urges Alex to have the surgery. The request is to operate straight away to remove affected areas. You have met with both Anthony and Alex to discuss the treatment and feel strongly that Alex should go through with the operation. You have the support of Anthony, their son who is also trying to convince Alex to change their mind. The surgery is important to maintaining Alex's health and well-being, and you are positive that the procedure will improve their quality of life. The operation will reduce pain symptoms and help with mobility which means they will be able to spend more time outside playing with Anthony's kids.

The outcome:

Alex is naturally fearful and anxious about the operation so perhaps you can meet with her individually and go through the expected benefits. This may ease their mind and some of their fears about the procedure. If the client is well aware of what is involved without the pressure of her son, Alex may have a better opportunity to consider what they would like to do.

Discuss the client's rights in this scenario.

What are some other opportunities for client advocacy that you can identify as a result of this situation?

How might your own views, opinions or values impact or conflict with your discussion with the client?

What are some other ways you might communicate with key members of the client's team?

What type of advocacy service is being implemented in this scenario?

Explain the difference of processes between individual and group advocacy.

Explain the consultation and decision-making process that occurred in this scenario.

Explain the consultation and decision-making process that occurred in this scenario.

Explain how representation and advocacy is different to decision-making on behalf of a client