Independent advocacy services for looked-after children and young people: evidencing the impact

Abstract

This article considers the data collection practices of voluntary sector advocacy organisations and the impact that poor recording of referral and outcome information can have on the future of independent advocacy services for looked-after children. The article draws on research conducted by the author exploring the characteristics of young people using voluntary sector advocacy services. The study involved the collection of information from 11 voluntary sector advocacy organisations during the year April 2010 to March 2011 on the young people using their independent advocacy services. While the data provided gives some important information, a lack of systematic recording by organisations meant that we were unable to get a detailed picture of service use and effect. The article argues that a lack of available evidence may hamper the long-term future of this important area of voluntary sector support for looked-after children.