Advocacy and Independent Visitor Services
Coram Voice to deliver Advocacy and Independent Visitor services
Coram Voice has been providing Advocacy and Independent Visitor (IV) services for children and young people across Coventry and Warwickshire since the transition from Barnardo's.
If you need help to have your voice heard, understand your rights, speak up about something that is important to you, or would like support from an independent adult, Coram Voice may be able to help.
You can ask your Personal Adviser or social worker to make a referral, or you can refer yourself directly.
Find details on who can access the service and how to make a referral:
Who can access these services?
You may be able to access Advocacy or Independent Visitor (IV) support if you:
- are a child or young person aged 4 to 18 who is in care (or up to age 25 if you have special educational needs or disabilities)
- are a care leaver aged 16 to 25
- are involved in a Family Group Conference or Child Protection Conference
- are 16 or 17 years old and need help because you're homeless or at risk of homelessness
- want to make a complaint or raise a concern about services you receive from Coventry City Council
- are a young carer and need support as you prepare for adulthood
- live in a private fostering arrangement
- are an unaccompanied asylum-seeking young person or a victim of modern slavery
If you're unsure whether you can access the service, please get in touch. Coram Voice can advise you and help you understand the support available.
What to expect from Coram Voice?
Coram Voice Advocates can help you to:
- have your views, wishes and feelings heard
- speak up about issues that matter to you
- make sure adults listen to your voice
- understand your rights and get the support you need
Coram Voice Independent Visitors (IVs) are trusted adults who provide ongoing support and build positive, long-term relationships with children and young people in care.
Where possible, you will continue to work with the same Advocate or Independent Visitor. If this is not possible, Coram Voice will ensure you are introduced to a new Advocate or Independent Visitor so that your support continues without interruption.
How to access Advocacy services?
Making a referral:
- Use the Advocacy Helpline:
- Freephone: Dial 0808 800 5792. This number is free to call and does not appear on telephone bills
- WhatsApp: If you're 16 or over, add +44 (0)7758 670369 to your contacts and send a message
- Text: Text 07758 670369 to request a call back. Standard text messaging rates apply
2. Complete and advocacy Referral Form
If you would like support from an Advocate, you can complete a referral form yourself or ask your Personal Adviser, social worker, carer or another trusted adult to help you get the support you need.
You can find out more on the Coram Voice website.
If you are involved in a Child Protection process and would like independent support, Coram Voice can help make sure your views, wishes and feelings are heard. Send the completed form to Coram Voice
How to access an Independent Visitor (IV)
An Independent Visitor is a trusted adult who can spend time with you, listen to you, and provide support.
You may be able to have an Independent Visitor if:
- are a child or young person in care; and
- having an Independent Visitor would be helpful for you.
Requesting an Independent Visitor
If you are interested in having an Independent Visitor, speak to your social worker, Personal Adviser, or another professional who supports you.
Download a Referral Form
If you have any questions, please contact Children's Commissioning.