People First Independent Advocacy

Who we are

People First is an independent customer-led organisation that has worked in Cumbria for over 25 years. We have a deep understanding of the area, our communities and the unique challenges.

We are the largest provider of Advocacy in Cumbria, supporting thousands of people every year to have their voices heard and helping them to live their best lives. Our independence is very important to us, we are not run or controlled by any other service.

We are a passionate organisation which dedicates itself to representing people’s views, we are dynamic and courageous and not afraid to stand up and be counted.

Our Independence

Our independence is a great strength of People First. We follow the Advocacy Charter which ensures that we maintain our independence at all times.

People First is an independent organisation, and we have a Board of Directors who are also people that currently use our services, or have done in the past.

Whilst we work with Local Authorities and the NHS we are not part of them and we have very specific rules in place when carrying out work for any other organisation.

Our History

People First was founded 30 years ago; our original focus was on providing self advocacy groups and empowering people with learning disabilities to gain confidence in a supportive setting.

We have helped to set up a self advocacy network across Cumbria and in 2009 joined together to create a single voice in the form of People First.

We are the largest provider of Advocacy in Cumbria, supporting thousands of people every year to have their voices heard and helping them to live their best lives. Our independence is very important to us, we are not run or controlled by any other service. We are a passionate organisation which prides itself to representing people’s views.