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Could you be an advocate?

Kent Family Group Conference Service (FGCS) is seeking volunteers to work with families in an important decision-making process that helps their voices to be heard when there is the possibility of their children becoming looked after by the Local Authority, or face Care Proceedings or when school attendance is so low that parents may be referred to Court. We also work with some Adults Social Services users who have key decisions to make in their lives.

What is an Advocate?

An Advocate is an adult who helps a child or family member to have their voice heard at their Family Group Conference (FGC). An Advocate is a volunteer, so they do get not paid, although reasonable expenses get reimbursed. Full training (in accordance with Department Of Health Advocacy Principles and Standards) and ongoing support and supervision is provided.

What is an Advocate expected to do?

  • An Advocate contacts the child or family member before the FGC to establish their role and to understand the situation from their point of view.
  • They talk about what the FGC might be like and agree how they will work together.
  • They then attend the FGC with that person and help them to express their wishes and feelings clearly.

You can also read some of our real-life advocate stories to see how they became involved.

Training sessions

To be advised shortly.

If you think you could be an advocate, contact us using the details below:

01322 611087 (West Kent - ask for Abigail)
or
01233 208680 (Ashford - ask for Mary)

Copyright Kent County Council 2008