Advocacy for Young People

Ensuring young people have a voice

Where a young person has experienced difficulties in their relationships and upbringing, it can often be very difficult to have the skills and confidence to ensure that their views are expressed and heard. This is especially important when you consider that decisions about how and where to provide care are often made by professionals, working as part of the looked after system and therefore the balance of power often works against the young person.

At Bryn Melyn Care we think that it is vitally important that young people have the opportunities to express their views and also to have independent support available when they disagree with a decision or have other complaints.

This is why we invest in our partnership with the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS).

The National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) is a UK charity providing children's rights and socio-legal services. They offer information, advice, advocacy and legal representation to children and young people up to the age of 25, through a network of advocates throughout England and Wales. NYAS is also a community Legal Service.

NYAS is committed to working towards full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and in particular Article 12 which concerns the right of every young person to be consulted in all matters affecting them.

All of our young people have regular access to a NYAS Advocate who visits our schools and young people in their homes to raise awareness and build relationships. Advocates can give general advice and guidance as part of the overall service provided at Bryn Melyn Care. In addition, advocates can get involved to help young people represent their views where they have specific issues or concerns.

This is just another way that Bryn Melyn Care offers young people and placing authorities a complete service focused on the needs of young people.