In November 2022, we launched our brand new advocacy clinics – a series of events for members of the Children and Young People’s Advocates Network. The clinics bring together children and young people’s advocates from across England and legal experts to increase professional knowledge, confidence and skills. By analysing real-life advocacy scenarios, we help independent advocates challenge rights’ breaches and protect children and young people’s rights even more effectively.
Visit this page for updates and to book a place on the next advocacy clinic.
CLINIC 1 – November 2022: Care leavers’ rights
We are hugely grateful to our expert guest speakers: Felicity Williams, Barrister at Garden Court Chambers, and Shu Shin Luh, Barrister at Doughty Street Chambers.
Resources: You can access the clinic presentation here; please also visit the ‘leaving care’ page on rights4children.
CLINIC 2 – February 2023: Accommodation for children aged 16 and 17 who are in care
We are hugely grateful to our expert guest speakers: Katie Wilkins, Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, and Khatija Hafesji, Barrister at Monckton Chambers.
Resources: You can access the clinic presentation (including references to other relevant materials) here.
CLINIC 3 – July 2023: The independent reviewing officer (IRO) – statutory functions, duties and powers
We are hugely grateful to our expert guest speaker, Lorraine Cavanagh KC, Barrister at St John’s Buildings.
Resources: You can access the clinic presentation here and a summary of the A & S (Children) v Lancashire County Council judgment here. Please also visit ‘your independent reviewing officer’ page on rights4children.
CLINIC 4 – November 2023: Education rights of looked after children
We are hugely grateful to our expert guest speakers: Angela Jackman KC (Hon), Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, and Ollie Persey, Barrister at Garden Court Chambers.
Resources: You can access the clinic presentation here. You can also learn more about education rights by reading our children’s rights legal digest (see in particular April 2023, March 2023, December 2022, June 2022, March 2022 and September 2021).
CLINIC 5 – Topic and date to be confirmed shortly (by end January 2024).