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Advocacy for disabled children and young people: benefits and dilemmas.

Authors :
Knight, Abigail
Oliver, Chris
Source :
Child & Family Social Work; Nov2007, Vol. 12 Issue 4, p417-425, 9p
Publication Year :
2007

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13567500
Volume :
12
Issue :
4
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Child & Family Social Work
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
26851284
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2206.2007.00500.x