Independent Advocacy | Towards a Best Practice Model
This report, authored by Hilary Jenkinson of UCC, offers a detailed look at the principles and practice of independent advocacy for children and young people with care experience. It aims to identify what best practice looks like in this field and presents a proposed model of advocacy that reflects the key themes emerging from the research.
Developed in partnership with EPIC, the research is grounded in the voices and experiences of:
- Young people who have engaged with EPIC’s National Advocacy Service
- EPIC advocates
- EPIC’s management team
- Key stakeholders in the sector
The report provides an in-depth analysis of our Advocacy Service and draws on insights from both lived experience and professional practice. It also considers wider evidence from national and international research on independent advocacy.
At its core, the report recommends a relationship-based model of independent advocacy, firmly rooted in children’s rights and designed to promote voice, participation and empowerment. This model highlights the importance of strong, trusting relationships between advocates and young people as central to meaningful advocacy.
In addition to supporting individual young people, the report also recognises the vital role independent advocacy plays in challenging systemic issues and driving change at policy and service levels.
