Support and advocacy
Independent visitor
An independent visitor is an adult volunteer who gives up some of their free time to meet you once a month to do an activity together.
You are entitled to an independent visitor if you are:
- a child or young person in foster care or a children's home
- aged between 8 and 17.5 years old
You'll be matched with a volunteer who has similar interests to you.
Advocacy
Advocacy is for children and young people who are in care, leaving care, who have a social worker, or those who are open to family help.
Coram Voice is the independent advocacy provider for Walsall. They provide a confidential advocacy service for all children and young people we support, including:
- children in our care
- care leavers
- homeless 16- and 17-year-olds
and those accessing support via:
- family help
- child in need
- child protection
What is an advocate?
An advocate is a person who can help you say if you don’t like something, or if you don’t agree with a decision that affects your life. It is one of your rights to request an advocate.
Advocates are independent and confidential. They don’t work for the council or children’s services. They will not tell anyone what you say to them without your agreement (unless there’s something that might cause harm to you or someone else.)
If you’re receiving support from one of the services above, remember you have the right to:
- have a say in decisions that affect your life
- be listened to and taken seriously
- use an advocate to help look after your rights
- not be hurt or abused
- be treated fairly, whatever your race, religion, sexuality, gender, language or disability
- have your health looked after
- get the most out of your school or college
- have an advocate
How to get a referral for advocacy
Find out how to contact Coram Voice’s advocacy helpline if you’re a child or young person, or a professional providing support.
Phonecalls and WhatsApp messages are free. You can also text or email them.
Other referral options
Children and young people can also ask professionals to support them to make a referral.
You can find the referral form on the Coram Voice website.
Find out more about advocacy and getting an advocate from:
