Tender for provision of independent advocacy services for children and young people within Jersey

Description

The Government of Jersey (GOJ) is seeking service provider(s) to deliver independent advocacy for children and young people within Jersey for whom the GOJ has/will have statutory advocacy obligation under the draft Children and Young Peoples Law. Independent Advocacy is when someone who is not part of the government or service these children and young persons who are being supported with, helps them express their views and navigate complex systems like child protection, education, and healthcare, ensuring their voices are heard and considered in decisions that affect them. Parents and carers often provide informal advocacy for their children, vulnerable children may not always have this support. Without a trusted advocate, they can struggle to navigate complex systems, leaving their voices unheard and their needs unmet. The Children and Young Peoples Law allowed the States of Jersey to develop regulations for an independent advocacy service, creating a legal role for qualified professionals to support eligible children and young people, including: 1. Children with health or development needs (on a child in need plan) 2. Children with safeguarding arrangements (on a child protection plan) 3. Looked after children 4. Care leavers The Children and Young People (Independent Advocates) (Jersey) Regulations, which have been lodged and expected to be debated early 2025, will ensure vulnerable children have consistent access to independent, professional advocacy services. This support empowers them to express their views, understand their rights, and participate meaningfully in decisions that shape their lives. This is an open and competitive tender but we must highlight the fact that nature of services will require very regular attendance on island. Off island bidders therefore should ensure their delivery model and cost modelling has made consideration of this. Keywords: independent advocacy for children and young people within Jersey