Advocacy Services · N-Compass for Blackburn With Darwen Borough Council (Aug 2025)

Key risks/issues

1. Political Risks

Policy changes: Shifts in government priorities (e.g. funding focus, devolution, or centralisation of advocacy provision) could affect long-term sustainability or service scope.

Local government restructuring: Changes in local authority boundaries or budgets may disrupt commissioning or alter responsibilities.

Stakeholder alignment: Differing agendas between local authorities, NHS bodies, and third-sector partners could create conflicts in service design or funding.

Public sector funding cuts: Political pressure to reduce spending could limit available budgets for advocacy services.

2. Economic Risks

Budget constraints: Reduced funding for public services can lead to under-procurement, affecting service quality and capacity.

Inflation and cost of living: Rising operational costs (e.g., staffing, travel, training, technology) could make delivery less viable within fixed contracts.

Market instability: If few providers exist, or if smaller charities merge or close, procurement competition and resilience decrease.

Value for money challenges: Balancing quality advocacy with affordability may pressure providers to reduce staff pay or training.

3. Social Risks

Changing demographics: Growing elderly population, complex needs, and increasing mental health concerns across all ages could drive demand beyond capacity.

Inequalities in access: Risk that certain groups (e.g., people with learning disabilities, children, ethnic minorities, rural residents) might be underserved.

Public awareness: Low awareness of advocacy rights can lead to underuse or inconsistent referrals.

Workforce challenges: Recruiting and retaining skilled advocates, particularly in rural or high-cost areas, may be difficult.