A report published by the Children’s Commissioner for England finds that 55% of children in care are unaware of their entitlement to an advocate and so may left to fend for themselves in meetings with professionals. ‘Helping children get the care experience they need’ also finds wide inconsistencies in children’s access to advocacy support across the country; with wide variations in numbers of children supported, in groups of children considered eligible, in funding and in the availability of advocates. Recommendations include the review of national standards and guidance for advocacy and the development of practice guidance on ‘what works’ in delivering high quality advocacy support.
For more information and a link to the report visit The Children’s Commissioner website.