Forth Valley charity celebrates 30 years of helping people be heard

A Forth Valley charity has celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of advocating for those who need help being heard.

Central Advocacy Partners (CAP) is an independent advocacy charity which helps adults with learning disabilities and adults with autism across Falkirk, Stirling, and Clackmannanshire.

A Forth Valley charity has celebrated its 30th anniversary. Central Advocacy Partners have spent the last three decades helping people have their voices heard. (Contributed).

placeholder image — A Forth Valley charity has celebrated its 30th anniversary. Central Advocacy Partners have spent the last three decades helping people have their voices heard. (Contributed).

Held at The Barracks in Stirling, a celebratory event took place last Thursday after the charity’s AGM where members reflected on their work over the years.

Lord Provost Councillor Rosemary Fraser of Stirling Council, John Ferguson, and Dave Bleasdale - who made a donation which helped fund the initial Falkirk Advocacy Project which CAP stemmed from, were all in attendance.

CAP doesn’t speak for people, make decisions on their behalf, or give advice - they simply make sure the person’s own voice is heard.

This year alone, CAP’s team of staff supported more than 500 people across the region.

Angela Reid, manager of Central Advocacy Partners, said: “What a turnout we had today for our AGM and 30th birthday celebration.

“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the value our service brings to people who have a learning disability or are autistic.

“This year, key funding has helped us support people and help them have their voice heard through our advocacy services.

“Challenges around funding remain, but we are committed to the next 30 years of supporting learning disabled and autistic adults across Forth Valley to have their voices heard.

“What lies ahead for CAP? More of the same, hopefully for the next 30 years to come.”