Parents Advocacy
At SAtA, we believe every parent or carer deserves to be listened to, understood and involved in decisions about their children and family.
Dealing with social care, child protection processes or court proceedings can feel confusing and overwhelming. Our independent advocates can help parents understand what is happening, express their views and take part in important meetings.
What is Parents’ Advocacy?
Parents’ Advocacy means having someone independent by your side to support you through meetings, assessments and child protection processes.
Our advocates:
Help you understand information and what is being discussed.
Make sure your views and wishes are clearly expressed.
Support you to take part in meetings and ask questions.
Ensure that professionals communicate clearly and in ways that make sense to you.
Help you prepare for and follow up on important meetings or decisions.
We do not take sides or make decisions for you — we are there only for you, to help you have your say.
Who Can Access the Service?
This service is for parents in Solihull who:
Live in Solihull
Are involved with Solihull Children’s Services (for example, through a child protection plan proceedings/pre-proceedings or; through Parenting assessments.)
Are the Parent or carer (or expected Parent) of a child/children aged 0/18.
Our advocates are independent from social services, schools and health professionals. This means we work only for you, ensuring your perspective is represented fairly.
How We Can Help
Our advocacy can support you to:
Understand reports, assessments and plans
Prepare for meetings and feel confident to speak up
Ask questions if things are unclear
Know your rights as a parent
Communicate with professionals clearly
Stay involved in decisions that affect your children
We can also help you to request reasonable adjustments such as easier-to-read information, visual support or more time to understand so that you are fully included in the process.
When to Ask for an Advocate
You may want an advocate when:
Children’s Services are carrying out an assessment
You have meetings with social workers or other professionals
You are involved in Child Protection processes
You feel you are not being listened to or understood
Getting advocacy early can make a big difference — we can help you understand what’s happening and feel more confident during meetings.
How to Get Support
If you think you might benefit from a Parents’ Advocate, you can:
Ask your social worker or family support worker to refer you, or
Contact us directly to talk about what help might be available or complete a referral form and send it to parents@solihulladvocacy.org.uk