What is an advocate?
An advocate is someone who:
- Works for you – They will listen to what you have to say and help you tell other adults your views and wishes.
- Will meet with you and talk about anything you want to start, stop, or change about your life.
- Will help you in meetings or will go in your place to share your views, wishes and feelings with other adults at the meeting.
- Can help you to make a complaint if you are unhappy with Children’s Services.
- Will be led by you – They won’t do anything you’re not happy with.
- Will speak to you in private, in a place you feel comfortable.
- Will be clear about who your information will be shared with.
- Help you to know your rights.
What are Independent visitors?
Independent visitors are volunteers who:
- Will be an adult friend.
- Will listen to you.
- Help you take part in activities that interest you.
- Take you out and have fun.
- Can help you in meetings.
- Help you to know your rights.
The members of the Somerset In Care Council and Somerset Leaving Care Council have created a great video about Independent visitors, watch it below:
How can I make a complaint?
A Route1 advocate can help you to make a complaint. Watch the video below to find out more.
A Route1 advocate can help you to make a complaint. You can request support from an advocate by emailing route1advocacy@somerset.gov.uk.
If you require a Route1 advocacy or Independent Visitor Referral form please contact us
Your rights
Children and Young People have many rights defined by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. To view these rights take a look at the Your rights leaflet below.
How to contact an advocate
Face to face
Do you want to speak to an advocate face to face? They can visit you at school, at home or another place you feel safe. If so, send us a message via our contact us page and we will contact you within 2 working days.
Telephone and video
Do you want to speak to an advocate via phone or video call? They can call you at school, at home or in another place you feel safe.
If so, send us a message via our contact us page and we will contact you within 2 working days.
Newsletters
You can download and read previous editions of Your Voice Newsletters on Route1 latest news page.