Staffordshire Parental Advocacy Service supports Parents in the best interests of Children, Young People, the Parents themselves, and anybody else involved.

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The aim of the Parental Advocacy Service is to support Parents to engage effectively in processes involving their Child. It helps Parents to:

• Ensure that their voice is heard

• Understand information being shared

• Make informed choices

• Secure their rights within the process

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In addition to providing 1:1 advocacy support, Advocates may attend and support Parents in a range of meetings, including:

• Child Protection Conferences

• Core Group Meetings

• Child in Need Meetings

• Family Group Conferences

• Care Planning Meetings

• Public Law Outline (PLO) Meetings

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Eligibility:

The Provider will deliver a Parental Advocacy Service for Staffordshire Parents aged 25 and over who:

• Have assessed Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND), and who had an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or a Statement of Special Educational Needs that remained in place until the end of their formal education or

• Have undergone a cognitive/capacity assessment which has deemed them to lack the capacity to Advocate for themselves

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This service is intended for Staffordshire Parents of children who are subject to open Child Protection Planning, Early Intervention, or Child in Need planning.

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Advocacy support in relation to Solicitor interactions or Court Hearings should be provided by individuals appointed by the court.

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