18th July 2026
2 Safar 1448

BEGINS

JAMA’AH

Fajr
03:13
04:15
Sunrise
05:02
Dhuhr
13:12
13:30
Asr
18:35
19:00
Maghrib
21:11
21:11
Esha
22:18
22:30

18th July 2026
2 Safar 1448

BEGINS

JAMA’AH

Fajr
03:13
04:15
Sunrise
05:02
Dhuhr
13:12
13:30
Asr
18:35
19:00
Maghrib
21:11
21:11
Esha
22:18
22:30

18th July 2026
2 Safar 1448

Fajr
03:13
04:15
Sunrise
05:02
Dhuhr
13:12
13:30
Asr
18:35
19:00
Maghrib
21:11
21:11
Esha
22:18
22:30

Community Advocacy Service

Providing holistic, accessible, high quality advocacy support for residents

At the heart of every thriving community is a place where people feel heard, supported, and empowered. Barking Muslim Association (BMA) Advocacy Service is designed to be that place. We offer warm, person‑centred, and confidential advocacy to individuals who need help navigating complex systems, understanding their rights, and speaking up about what matters most to them. We believe that everyone deserves to feel confident and respected, and our service ensures no one faces challenges alone.

Who We Are

We are a compassionate and dedicated advocacy team, united by a shared belief that everyone deserves to be heard, respected, and supported. Our members come from diverse backgrounds and bring a rich blend of skills, experiences, and lived insight. By working closely with individuals, we provide high‑quality, person‑centred advocacy that empowers people to understand their rights, express their wishes, and make informed choices.

We know that navigating health, social care, housing, and community services can often feel overwhelming or confusing. That’s why our focus is on removing barriers and making support feel accessible, clear, and truly tailored to each person’s needs. Whether someone needs help speaking with their GP, following up on a referral, need help filling forms, or raising concerns, we walk alongside them every step of the way.

For over 40 years, BMA has been deeply rooted in the local community—developing inclusive, responsive, and innovative support that reflects the evolving needs of local people. Our longstanding presence has helped us build trust, strong partnerships, and a genuine understanding of the communities we serve.

With a proven track record of promoting inclusion, strengthening wellbeing, and amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard, BMA is well placed to deliver an Advocacy Service that truly makes a difference. Working hand‑in‑hand with residents, local authorities, and partner organisations, we are committed to creating a service that empowers individuals, supports families, and strengthens the wider community.

Why Advocacy Matters

Our Advocacy service ensures that individuals especially those who are vulnerable, marginalised, or experiencing crisis, are heard, respected, and involved in shaping the support they receive. A well-structured advocacy service helps bridge gaps that many residents face, such as:

  • Limited understanding of their rights
  • Language or communication barriers
  • Emotional overwhelm during key decision-making moments
  • Lack of confidence to challenge decisions or express concerns

By supporting people to articulate their needs, we create a stronger, fairer, and more person‑centred system for all.

Purpose of the Service 

Our goal is to provide holistic, accessible, high‑quality advocacy support for residents who may be experiencing barriers related to health, housing, social care, education, or community services. Through compassionate guidance, we help people:

  • Understand their options
  • Make informed decisions
  • Have their voices heard
  • Build confidence and independence
  • Connect with the right services and support

This project focuses on prevention, early intervention, and empowerment, ultimately improving wellbeing and reducing pressure on statutory services.

How can I be referred to Day Care Centre:

Many individuals in our local community struggle to navigate systems or feel confident in voicing concerns. This includes:

  • People with mental health needs
  • Carers and individuals with disabilities
  • Those facing homelessness or housing insecurity
  • Fear or anxiety about speaking with professionals
  • Lack of support when attending appointments
  • Difficulty understanding medical information
  • Migrant communities and individuals for whom English is not their first language
  • Anyone facing complex life challenges
 

Our service fills a crucial gap by offering free, friendly, and professional advocacy, ensuring no one slips through the cracks.

Service Delivery

We will deliver the service through:

  • One‑to‑one advocacy support (in person, by phone, and online)
  • Drop‑in weekly community sessions at accessible local venues
  • Workshops on confidence‑building, rights awareness, and navigating public services
  • Partnership working with local charities, GP surgeries, housing providers, and community hubs


Our team will include qualified advocates alongside trained community volunteers to maximise impact