Tender: Independent Advocacy and Independent Visitor Service for Care-Experienced and At-Risk Children – The Council

About

The Council is seeking a supplier to deliver an Independent Advocacy and Independent Visitor Service for care-experienced young people, children subject to child protection plans, children in need, and 16- and 17-year-olds who may be homeless or require accommodation. The advocacy service must empower young people to have a voice by providing independent information, advice, support and advocacy, offering a confidential opportunity to share concerns, be informed of their rights and access independent representation, and be led by the views and wishes of children and young people while championing their rights and needs; these measures must be implemented in line with Effective Advocacy for Looked-After Children, Children in Need and Care Leavers 2023 and adapt to any new guidance. The Independent Visitor service must provide trained adults who befriend children in care, take an interest in their welfare, spend time with them, offer advice, support and guidance, encourage participation in personal development activities, help identify problems early, support expression of concerns and help raise self-esteem, confidence and the ability to form trusting relationships while safeguarding these children.