Have your Say. Shape your World. Get Involved. Grasp your Chance.
Children's Independent Advocacy Service
Children and young people have children's rights. Independent advocates make sure you are treated fairly, understand what rights you have and that you have the information you need to make a decision or a choice.
They will not tell you what decision to make, but help you to think about what might happen next, depending on you what you choose.
What advocacy is
Advocacy is about helping you to speak out about what is important to you. You have the right to have your say and be listened to when decisions are being made about you.
How an advocate can help
If you're a child or young person who is in care, leaving care or needs our support you can ask an advocate for help. You can contact an advocate for lots of different reasons. For example, about:
- seeing your family
- where you live
- feeling safe
- education.
What the advocate can do
- Give you information and advice so you understand your rights.
- Speak to those who are making decisions about you (like social workers), to help make sure that you are involved in any plans being made about you.
- Make sure you understand what people are saying.
- Help you to make a complaint.
What we'll promise
Independent
Our advocates are independent and here just for you. They do not work for your social worker or the place where you live.
Confidential
We'll not tell other people anything you have said without your permission, unless we are worried about your safety or the safety of another person.
How to ask for an independent advocate
Ask for help from an advocate yourself
Tel: 01629 532029
email: childrens.rights@derbyshire.gov.uk
Write to:
Participation Team
Room 388
County Hall
Matlock
Derbyshire
DE4 3AG
Ask an adult to request an advocate for you
An adult cannot ask for an advocate to help you without you agreeing to this. You have a right to say no if you don't want the help.