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This year marks 20 years of independent mental health advocacy in Jersey, celebrating two decades of ensuring that some of the Island’s most vulnerable people have a voice when it matters most.

Established in 2006 as Jersey’s statutory independent mental health advocacy service, the organisation supports people detained under mental health legislation to understand their rights, participate in decisions about their care and ensure their wishes are heard. Since then, its role has expanded to include advocacy for people who lack capacity due to advanced dementia, acquired brain injury or learning disability.

Today, the service supports around 400 people every year, ranging in age from 12 to 108. Every service is provided free of charge by a small team of just four full-time advocates and a part-time office manager.

Although little known outside health and care services, the organisation has earned the respect of patients, families and clinicians alike for its independence, professionalism and unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of those who may otherwise struggle to have their voices heard.

Beyond its frontline work, the organisation has also helped shape Jersey’s legal landscape. It was instrumental in campaigning for reform and contributed to the development of Jersey’s modern Mental Health Law and the Capacity and Self-Determination Law, which came into force in 2016. Together, these laws strengthened the rights and safeguards available to Islanders receiving mental health care or living with impaired decision-making capacity. 

MyVoice CEO Patricia Winchester, said: “For 20 years, our advocates have stood alongside people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Our role is simple but vital: to ensure that every person is heard, their rights are upheld and their wishes are respected, regardless of their circumstances.

“We are proud of the trust that patients and professionals place in us. While much of our work happens quietly behind the scenes, its impact can be life-changing. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead to continuing to champion the rights, dignity and autonomy of Jersey’s most vulnerable Islanders.”

Every year, the organisation helps hundreds of people navigate complex health and legal systems, ensuring they understand their rights and can participate as fully as possible in decisions affecting their lives.

From supporting teenagers experiencing serious mental illness to older Islanders living with advanced dementia, advocates provide an independent voice when it is needed most.

As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, the organisation remains committed to its founding purpose: ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, diagnosis or capacity, has someone independent to stand beside them and make sure their voice is heard.