National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS)
Leaving care can be a confusing and worrying time, but if you are a care leaver aged between 18 - 25 years old you have the right to independent advocacy.
About the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS)
NYAS have independent advocates who will listen to you and can offer support in lots of ways. They can:
- help you be more involved in important decisions about your life
- listen to what you want and help you to share your opinions
- be a reliable, trusted source of support
- give you information about your rights and entitlements
- challenge or review decisions that have been made about you
- give you information about other services that can help such as financial services or employment services
- support you with your mental health, see NYAS Mental health advocacy
The support you can expect from NYAS
NYAS can help you:
- if you feel your views are not being listened to and want someone on your side
- if you are unhappy with the way you are being cared for
- if you are angry or upset about something that is happening to you
- if you feel you haven't been treated fairly
- if no one is telling you what is happening about your situation
- if you haven't been involved in decisions that are being made about you
- to take part in meetings and reviews such as Child Protection Conferences, see Child Protection Conference - help from NYAS
There may be some things that can't be changed, but an advocate will make sure everyone knows how you feel and help you to understand why the decision has been made.
NYAS provide a confidential service, and will only pass on information about you with your consent, unless it places you at risk of harm.
Getting help from NYAS
If you would like to have the support of an advocate you can get in touch direct by calling the free and confidential NYAS Helpline 0808 808 1001
If you prefer, you can speak with your social worker and ask them to contact NYAS.
For more information visit NYAS - Advocacy support for young people (opens new window)
