Standard 5: Advocacy and Systemic Change

From a financial mentor perspective, advocacy involves actively supporting clients to have their voices heard, their rights respected, and their needs met. Mentors act on behalf of clients when navigating complex financial systems, interacting with creditors, or dealing with organisations, ensuring clients can access fair treatment and appropriate services.

Advocacy is guided by the client’s goals and consent, empowering them to make informed decisions while maintaining autonomy and dignity.

Systemic change goes beyond individual support, addressing the root causes of financial inequities and barriers that affect communities. Financial mentors contribute by identifying patterns of unfair practices, engaging with organisations or policymakers, and advocating for reforms that promote fairness, equity, and cultural responsiveness. This work helps create long-term improvements in financial systems, ensuring that solutions benefit not just one client but broader communities.