Advocates For Change
Facilitated by Scottish Drugs Forum, this collective brings together people most affected by drugs policy and practice in Scotland to shape and drive the changes needed to save lives.
“Our voices come with insight, resilience, and a shared desire to co-create systems that truly work for everyone. We invite service providers, commissioners, and government to walk with us, listen deeply, and recognise the unique leadership we bring.”
WE ARE ADVOCATES FOR CHANGE
Advocates For Change is an annual gathering that brings together people most affected by drugs policy and practice in Scotland to shape the changes needed to save lives.
Participants attend from across Scotland, including people involved with SDF’s Living Experience Engagement Groups, the Scottish Prison Service, and drug and alcohol charities.
The event takes place ahead of our annual Stop The Deaths conference. The issues and ideas raised by participants help shape discussions at the conference.
"Our voices come with insight, resilience, and a shared desire to co-create systems that truly work for everyone. We invite service providers, commissioners, and government to walk with us, listen deeply, and recognise the unique leadership we bring."
Advocates for Change Visual Identity
Our visual identity was developed through a series of co-design workshops. Participants shaped what the identity should communicate and what it should avoid.
Importantly, the identity was developed with the people involved, rather than being created for them.
The final concept is based on the idea of voices becoming action. The megaphone represents voice, advocacy and being heard, while the badge reflects pride, belonging and ownership. The phrase “We Are Advocates For Change” came directly from a member of the Buzz Magazine peer editorial board. It reinforces that this is a collective identity, owned by the people involved in the work.
"We are not waiting for permission. We are not asking for a seat at the table — we are building our own table, and we expect Scotland to listen."
At SDF, we know that people with living and lived experience have unique expertise that is essential to creating more effective policies and services, reducing harm and saving lives. Advocates For Change is built on the belief that lasting change happens when people with living and lived experience are not only listened to but are central to shaping the solutions.
