Advocacy for young people
Young people who have left school and either:
- have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan; or
- are in the process of applying for an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan
can receive free support from an independent advocate.
What are Independent Advocates?
Independent Advocates support young people with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan or who are leaving care to get support and help from Children's Services.
They have no connection with Surrey County Council or any other agency.
Independent Advocates make sure that you are always involved in decisions about your life. They also made sure you know your rights and speak out when your rights are not being upheld.
Independent advocates are free to use and can be helpful when you feel your voice is not being heard by professionals.
Because Independent advocates are bound by confidentiality regulations, they only pass on information that you have agreed can be shared with others (unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others).
How to arrange an Independent Advocate?
Surrey County Council have a legal duty to arrange for any young person who needs an independent advocate to have one.
If Surrey County Council feels that you need an independent advocate, they may ask to pass your details on to one. They will always ask you or your parents/ carers first, and will not pass on your details unless you say they can.
To find out more, please contact the SEND Team.
Can I arrange an Independent Advocate myself?
Yes! It is possible to contact an advocacy agency yourself, details of not-for-profit agencies in Surrey can be found below.
- Kag is a not-for-profit charity that helps vulnerable people have a say in decisions that affect them and how they live their lives.
- Reconstruct's Surrey Advocacy Service provide support to children and young people who are in care, care leavers or subject to a Child Protection Plan. This includes empowering young people to speak up for themselves, explaining decision making and what support is available to them, along with resolving issues and complaints.