AN advocacy service which aims to provide a voice for older people in York celebrated its public launch this week.

The Older Citizens Advocacy York (OCAY), based in Townend Street, was formed in January in order to offer advice, guidance and act as advocates for people in the city aged over 60.

The service had already received dozens of queries from people across the city and has provided an advocate for nine people, dealing with a range of problems.

On Thursday the service held a public launch at St Thomas's Church Hall in Lowther Street when people could find out more about the service.

This followed a launch to local businesses and other organisations in April.

Advocacy manager Tony Brindle said OCAY, which receives money from the Community Fund, provides a free, confidential and independent service.

He said: "We had a very good response from the people who came to the launch, some were also interested in volunteering and have put their name down to attend our training event.

"We are here to help anybody over the age of 60 living in York. It can be anybody in any situation, we don't just advocate for people with problems with social services or health, it can be anybody in any circumstances.

"It's about helping people to help themselves and we promote independence first of all. If that person doesn't feel capable or isn't in the position to go out and do it themselves, we can assign a volunteer advocate to assist.

"The advocate can sometimes just do a lot of speaking up for the person, putting forward their point of view at meetings or tribunals."

Initial contact to the service should be made at the office in Townend Street between 11am and 3pm Monday to Friday or on 01904 676200.

Updated: 10:55 Saturday, June 22, 2002