Welcome to Hammersmith & Fulham's Children's Advocacy Service.
We are here to make sure that the voices of children and young people in our care are heard and considered when important decisions are being made about their lives.
How we help
The children's advocate is an independent professional who is dedicated to supporting young people. Our goal is to ensure that the voices and wishes of children and young people are heard and respected.
The advocate is separate from the decision-making social work teams, ensuring that your wishes and feelings are always at the centre of the conversation.
Independence statement
The children's advocate makes sure the voice of the child is heard and they are always on your side. The children's advocate is independent (works separately) and is there for children and young people not professionals like social workers and other services.
The children's advocate focuses on what's important to the child or young person first and foremost. The service makes sure a child or young person's rights are upheld and they are treated fairly.
Who we help
Our advocacy service is available to young people:
- between the ages of 7 and 25
- cared for by the council
- supported by a child protection plan
- care experienced.
What we do
The advocate will meet with you before and after important meetings and work with you to ensure your thoughts, feelings, and views are central to any meeting or decision being made about you.
This includes helping you understand your rights and entitlements and supporting you to communicate your issues and concerns with the right people.
We make sure you understand what professionals are saying and help you to say what you want, making sure people listen to you.
We provide a confidential service - this means we won't tell anyone what you have shared without your permission, unless we are worried that you or someone else might be unsafe or at risk of being harmed.
We can also support you to make a formal complaint.
Read our children's advocacy report for 2021 to 2022.
How to contact us
We are here to support you, so don't hesitate to reach out to us:
- ask your social worker to get in touch with us
- call the Children's Advocacy line directly on 07795 127 380
- email us at childrensadvocacy@lbhf.gov.uk
Remember: Your voice matters. We are here to make sure it's heard.