Your Rights, Your Voice and Getting Help
Being in care or leaving care can sometimes feel confusing, especially when people use words and phrases that you may not have heard before. It is important to remember that you have rights, your views matter, and there are people whose job it is to listen to you and help you get the support you need. Based on the content describing the roles of Personal Advisors, social workers, advocates and Independent Reviewing Officers.
Whether you need advice, have concerns about the support you are receiving, want to make a complaint, or simply want someone to listen to your ideas, help is available. Your Social Worker, Personal Advisor, Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO), advocate and other trusted adults can help make sure your voice is heard and that you are involved in decisions about your life.
This section explains your rights, who can support you, how to get advocacy, ways to share your views and ideas, and what to do if something is not working well. You can also find information about getting involved in improving services for children in care and care leavers across Hampshire, celebrating achievements, and giving feedback about your experiences.
You do not have to work things out on your own. If you are unsure where to start, speak to your Social Worker, Personal Advisor or another trusted adult, who can help you find the right support.
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Your Social Worker and Personal Adviser
Here you can find out about your Social Worker and Personal Advisor and how they can support you as you move towards independence. -
Advocacy
Here you can find out who can help you understand your rights and speak up about what matters to you. -
Independent Visitors
An Independent Visitor is a trusted adult volunteer who can spend time with you. Here you can find out more about them and how you can ask for one. -
Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs)
Here you can learn more about what Independent Reviewing Officer do to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are respected. -
Feedback and make your views heard
We want to hear what you think. Feedback and Challenge Cards give you an easy way to share your views, tell us what is working well, and suggest what could be better. -
Complaints and Compliments
If you are unhappy with a service or the support you have received, you have the right to make a complaint. You can also let us know if you think we have done something well. -
Celebrating Success
We want to celebrate your successes and recognise your achievements. Tell us if you or someone else has done something you want us to celebrate with you. -
Working together with us
We will do everything we can to support you. Here you can find what is expected from you in return.