Children and young people's advocacy and independent visitor service

The children and young people's advocacy and independent visitor service covers advocacy, independent visitor services, and advocacy for parents.

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Children and young people's advocacy

Children and Young People’s Advocacy helps children and young people to express their views, understand processes, and have their rights upheld when services are making decisions that affect their lives. Advocates ensure their voices are heard and considered across areas such as social care and SEND. This role is independent from the professionals who are responsible for making decisions in the child’s best interests. 

Eligibility criteria 

The Children and Young People’s Advocacy Service is available to the following cohorts of Children and Young People

  • Children and Young People in Care, including Care Leavers  
  • Young People aged 16-17 and without a home
  • Children Subject to a Child Protection Plan or who are Children in Need (CPP/CIN)
  • Children & Young People with Special Educational Needs (SEND)
  • Children with Disabilities 

Referrals

Referrals for Children and Young People’s Advocacy can be made by a wide range of individuals and organisations involved in the care and support of Children and Young People. These include:

  • Staffordshire County Council Staff and its commissioned providers
  • Primary and secondary health service providers  
  • Schools and other educational settings  
  • Local district and borough housing authority teams  
  • Relatives of the Child or Young Person
  • Foster Carers
  • The Child or Young Person themselves 

View full contact details, referral forms and information leaflets on the ASIST website