Advocates and independent visitors

Advocacy is about supporting people to make sure that their rights are respected, and their views and wishes are heard.

An advocate can provide support by:

  • helping you to say want you want
  • making sure you understand your rights
  • obtaining the services you are entitled to

Independent visitors are adult volunteers who are matched with young people in care to form more informal, long-term friendships. They can also provide some advocacy support.

Barnardo’s provide our advocacy and children’s rights service.