Parent

What is Parent Advocacy?

Advocacy is available for parents with learning difficulties, learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues, who are going through a child in need or child protection process or family court proceedings.

We believe an outcome can change if parents have early access to appropriate support and help. Advocacy can support parents to both understand expectations and be meaningfully involved in the legal processes, and to ensure their rights are upheld.

Advocates are qualified in independent advocacy and specialists in supporting people with additional needs through child in need, child protection and care proceedings.

When can I get an advocate?

A referral can be made when a child is being made subject to child protection or care proceedings have been initiated.

What will an advocate do?

An advocate will help parents to:

• Understand information being shared by a range of professionals involved in the child protection and family court process
• Meaningfully participate within meetings
• Understand and secure their rights within the process
• Make informed choices
• Have their voice heard by supporting them to express their views and wishes
• Access legal representation when necessary
• Advocate for themselves

How do I get a Parent Advocate?

Referrals can be made by both parents and professionals, with consent of the parent.

For more information and some resources for parents involved in child protection and / or family care proceedings, please take a look at our self help resources https://www.warringtonspeakup.org.uk/self-help/parent-resources/