Our free and confidential, non-judgmental, independent service offers support to children and young people involved in the child protection planning process (aged 4 to 18), children who are cared for by the local authority, and care experienced young people up to the age of 25.
With consent, About ME Advocacy is there to help you
- Share your views and wishes when decisions are being made about you and for you.
- Ensure your voice is heard on issues that are important to you.
- Help you express your views or concerns and support you to make a complaint.
- Defend and safeguard your rights.
- Get information and access to services.
About ME Advocacy may be able to help if
- you feel that what you want to say is not always listened to.
- you want your views heard in a way that you want it said, or want support to say it yourself.
- you feel that you have asked for something several times and nothing is happening.
- you feel that you have asked for something or have raised an issue and have not been given an answer or a timeline for when that can be achieved.
- you are aged 16 or 17 and at risk of homelessness, or already homeless, and want support to understand what your options are.
- you are involved in Family Group Conferencing and would benefit from having an advocate to represent your voice.
Our service is led by you
Our service is led by you, empowering and independent from other services.
Independent advocates are there to ensure your voice is heard in its truest form on matters that are important to you. They are there to ensure your views are listened to and taken into account.
Engagement options vary and can include face-to-face meetings, video calls or telephone calls. If you prefer, you can write down your own views and wishes for an advocate to present on your behalf. You can also draw images or send a voice note. All these options are available so that your voice can be heard in a way that you feel most comfortable with.
Contact us for more information
Email: Advocacy@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Telephone: 07920 089430
Your right to independent advocacy
Children and young people have a statutory right to Independent Advocacy.
Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the rights of the child. Section 26a of the Children Act 1989.
'Children, care leavers and families in Portsmouth benefit greatly from outstanding services'. - Outstanding Ofsted Rating 2026.