Advocacy Focus wins Tameside contract

Advocacy Focus has been awarded the contract to deliver children’s rights, advocacy and independent visitor services for the children and young people of Tameside. The service will provide independent advocacy and support, helping children and young people to understand their rights, express their wishes and views, and be listened to when decisions are being made about their lives.

The service will provide advocacy support for children and young people aged five and over, including those receiving support through child in need, child protection, cared for children and care leavers services. The advocacy team will provide independent support tailored to each child or young person, helping them to understand what is happening, share their views and take part in decisions that affect them.

As part of the service, Advocacy Focus will also provide an independent visitor service for eligible children and young people aged 10 and over. Independent visitors are volunteers who can build a long term, trusting relationship with a child or young person, providing consistent support and someone independent of the services involved in their care.

Leanne Hignett, services director at Advocacy Focus, said: "Every child and young person deserves to be listened to, respected and empowered to shape the decisions that affect their lives. 

"Through this service, we will champion their rights, ensure their voices are heard and provide the independent support they need to thrive. We look forward to working across Tameside, in partnership with local organisations, stakeholders and communities, to deliver a high quality service that creates positive, lasting outcomes for children and young people."