NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) has launched the third report in our #AcrosstheBorder research series, comparing advocacy policies and laws across England and Wales.
We call on ministers in England to introduce an ‘active (opt-out) offer’ of advocacy, as exists in Wales. This means that when children enter care, or at other key moments in their care journey, they are automatically connected with an independent advocate who explains advocacy and offers their services.
Launched last year, our #AcrosstheBorder research series reflects NYAS’ unique experience as an issue-based advocacy provider in both Wales and England. These briefings encourage learning between UK and Welsh governments, to end postcode lotteries and share best practice.
NYAS will also continue to push for the consolidation of England’s patchwork of statutory entitlement to advocacy alongside other partners in the sector as part of the collaborative Advocates 4 U campaign. In Wales, NYAS Cymru continues to support the monitoring of the ‘active offer’, as it continues to make sure all children in care are aware of their rights and entitlements.
Advocates across both nations play a vital role in empowering children and young people to be listened to and taken seriously.
Read our full #AcrosstheBorder briefing in English and in Welsh (Mae’r ddogfen hon hefyd ar gael yn Gymraeg).
