What is an Independent Visitor?

An Independent Visitor (IV) is a specially trained adult who is there to offer friendship, fun and support to looked after young people.

IVs are 'independent' which means they are nothing to do with your social worker or carers - they are there just for YOU.

IVs meet up with their matched young person once a month. Visits might include going to the cinema, bowling, a walk in the park, whatever you both enjoy doing.

If you'd like to have an IV, then have a chat with your social worker or you can phone Alison on 01480 437953 or email her alison.black@nyas.net.

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy is when someone makes sure people listen to each other.

The person who does this is called an Advocate.

An advocate can work for you to make sure people listen to what you think and feel. NEW NYAS now offer advocacy for you when you have to go to Child Protection Meetings. See this leaflet and if you would like an advocate use the same contact details as below.

We pay the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) to do this for you.
So if you need the help of someone like that, NYAS can arrange an advocate for you.

Just call them on Freephone Helpline on 0800 616101

Or Text on 0777 333 4555

Or Email on help@nyas.net