Advocacy for disabled children and young people: benefits and dilemmas

Authors: Knight, Abigail; Oliver, Chris

Source: Child & Family Social Work, Volume 12, Number 4, November 2007 , pp. 417-425(9)

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Abstract:

Recent policy has emphasized the need for advocacy services for children and young people, developments that have gone hand-in-hand with greater levels of participation of young people in decision-making. Advocacy for disabled young people is especially important, as they are a particular vulnerable group and have, traditionally, been even more excluded from decisions about matters affecting their lives. This paper reports the findings, as they relate to disabled young people, from a study that investigated the role of advocacy for looked-after children and children in need. The paper highlights some of the benefits of advocacy for disabled children, the dilemmas facing advocates between advocating and acting in someone's `best interests', identifying the client and the boundaries between advocacy and social work. It argues that time given to establish a close relationship with a disabled child or young person is crucial if advocacy is to be effective and participation in decisions affecting their lives a reality.

Keywords: advocacy; communication methods; disabled children and young people; social work

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2206.2007.00500.x

Publication date: 2007-11-01