Ms Patricia Rickard-Clarke:

I will add one point we have not mentioned, which is critical, especially for people who are at risk. It is the need for statutory recognition of independent advocacy and independent advocates. Certainly, now that the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act has commenced, the role of the independent advocate has become critical in ensuring the voice of the person is heard, apart from conflicts with families or services or whatever. As part of that legislation, if it is not already in place before that - I hope it will be in deprivation of liberty legislation - a recognition of the statutory requirement for adult independent advocacy will come. It is an important issue. Advocacy should be independent of service and independent of family. The voice of the person must be clearly assisted and supported by that advocacy service.