The Pakistan Advice and Community Association have recently recruited and trained eight Roma community advocates.
The advocates will have a number of roles and can be booked by organisations who are working with the Roma community.
Community interpreting
With their language skills the advocates will be able to support communication with the Roma community. Although they are not formally trained in interpretation, they will be receiving this training soon.
Consultation and information
The advocates can help put together focus groups for organisations who wish to consult the Roma community. They can also provide cultural infomation about the Roma community.
Street work and conflict Resolution
The Advocates will be able to accompany other services to carry out street work and home visits. They can assist services in overcoming problems, and act as an impartial liaison if needed. As a team of men and women from the local area they can provide appropriate and sensitive support.
Any statutory service, private business, third sector organisation or community group can book an advocate. There may be volunteer costs or additional costs attached depending on the work involved.
Please contact Miroslav Sandor at PACA on 0114 261 9130 or miro.paca@hotmail.co.uk