There are growing moves to provide advocacy services in Ireland. This, although still embryonic, is most advanced for people who experience mental distress. Within mental health services, an advocate can be someone who represents and defends the views, needs, wishes, worries and rights of individuals who do not feel able to do so themselves. Funding of €0.251 million was provided in 2002 for the first time for mental health advocacy services. The national health strategy, Quality and Fairness – A Health System for You, includes a commitment that mental health advocacy services will be encouraged and resourced.