Shropshire charity highlights support for disabled people across the county

A charity providing independent advocacy and support to disabled people across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin has highlighted the vital work it carries out in the community.

Tarrah Lewis gave a presentation to Borderland Rotary about Shropshire Peer Counselling & Advocacy Service (PCAS), which was founded more than 30 years ago by the Shropshire Disability Consortium.

Based in Oswestry, the organisation provides community-based independent advocacy for people with disabilities aged 18 and over across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

Ms Lewis said much of the charity's work takes place in people's homes, where support is often most needed.

“Although we are based in an office in Oswestry, just about all our work takes place at individuals’ homes as this is normally where the support is required as we help with isolation and make sure clients make informed decisions about their welfare,” she said.

“We also communicate with service providers – local authorities, utility companies – and check that they honour commitments and do what they have promised.”

PCAS aims to safeguard vulnerable people, support disabled people at risk of losing their homes or responsibility, and empower those who need a stronger voice.

Ms Lewis said the confidential nature of the charity's work meant that many people were unaware of the support available.

“As our work is mostly confidential, not that many people have heard of the organisation,” she said.

PCAS is a charity funded through public donations, grants and gifts, and Ms Lewis said it needed continued support to help people facing challenging circumstances.

Anyone wanting to find out more about PCAS or support its work can contact Ms Lewis at [email protected].