Children’s Secretary committed  to national approach to advocacy services

Ahead of a debate on the Children, Young People and Education Committee’s inquiry into advocacy provision, the Cabinet Secretary said he wanted to ensure that all eligible children from across Wales can access an independent professional advocate. He added that this will be implemented by all Local Authorities by June 2017.

Carl Sargeant said:

“Statutory independent advocacy services are crucial in protecting and safeguarding some of the most vulnerable children in Wales.

“We can’t have children in one area getting a different service to others, so we absolutely have to have every local authority signed up. I have committed to providing additional funding to meet the cost of this national approach.

“Local Authorities have confirmed their support and we are monitoring progress to ensure implementation by June 2017.”