MY APPROACH
Over 20 Years of Experience as an NHS Continuing Healthcare Advocate
I have worked in NHS Continuing Healthcare since 2003, when the Department of Health instructed the NHS to undertake the first major programme of retrospective continuing care reviews following the Health Service Ombudsman's findings. I subsequently worked through the development of the national CHC system and was involved in the rollout and training associated with the National Framework introduced in 2007, before moving into specialist independent advocacy in 2011. That experience now underpins my work as an independent NHS Continuing Healthcare Advocate, supporting individuals and families through assessments, reviews and challenges.
Diane Scott
NHS Continuing Healthcare Specialist
Founder & CHC Advocate
CHC SINCE 2003
A Career in NHS Continuing Healthcare
My career in NHS Continuing Healthcare began within the NHS in 2003, during a formative period for CHC. When the National Framework was introduced in 2007, I was involved in its initial rollout and training, helping NHS and local authority staff understand and apply the CHC criteria consistently and lawfully.
INDEPENDENT NHS CONTINUING HEALTHCARE ADVOCATE SINCE 2011
From the NHS to Independent Advocacy
In 2011, I moved into the private sector, specialising in advocacy for families navigating CHC assessments, appeals and retrospective claims. I later spent eight years working with a Manchester solicitors' firm, providing specialist CHC advocacy and supporting families through complex challenges and appeals.
Since November 2017, as part of a dedicated advocacy team, I contributed to the successful recovery of over £3.7 million in wrongly denied care funding for families.
After briefly retiring in 2024, I found that families were still reaching out for experienced, independent help. That continued demand led me to establish CHC Advocates Ltd — providing straightforward, specialist support directly to individuals and families navigating the CHC process.
20+
Years of CHC Experience
2003
Working in NHS Continuing Healthcare Since
£3.7m+
Contributed to Recovering Wrongly Denied Care Funding
8 Years
Specialist CHC Advocacy Within a Solicitors Firm
WHY EXPERIENCE MATTERS
Experience That Makes a Difference
MY APPROACH
CHC Experience From Both Sides of the Table
I understand NHS Continuing Healthcare from both sides of the table. I began my CHC career within the NHS in 2003 and was involved in the rollout and training associated with the National Framework. In 2011, I moved to the other side of the table — supporting and representing families through CHC assessments, disputes and appeals.
That combination of NHS and advocacy experience means I understand how the process is intended to work, how decisions are made in practice, what evidence matters and where things can go wrong.
When you instruct CHC Advocates Ltd, you instruct me. Your case isn't passed to a sales team, case manager or different advocate. I personally review the evidence, prepare your case and support you through the process.
I will also tell you when I don't believe a challenge is worthwhile. My approach is straightforward: honest advice, clear fees and no unnecessary work.