Abstract
Children and young people (C&YP) have a right, under Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC, 1989), to express their views freely in all matters affecting them; Yet meaningful participation remains largely contested. Advocacy has emerged as a key mechanism for supporting C&YP’s participation, however evidence on their lived experiences and perceptions of the social workers and advocates who support them remains limited. This paper reports on a systematic review that synthesised empirical research published since the introduction of the UNCRC. Thirteen studies, conducted across Ireland, England, Wales, Norway, Finland and the USA, were included following comprehensive searching and rigorous screening. Data were extracted and analysed thematically, identifying three overarching themes. Findings highlight that advocacy can enhance resilience, self-esteem, educational outcomes and participation for C&YP, but tensions between advocates and social workers, alongside structural barriers often constrain its effectiveness. The review recommends statutory entitlements to independent advocacy, interprofessional training to reduce professional tensions, and investment in resources and monitoring mechanisms. By drawing together diverse perspectives, this review strengthens the evidence base on advocacy, underscoring its potential to amplify C&YP’s voices in decision-making while identifying systemic reforms needed to embed child participation more fully within social work practice
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Advocacy; Child participation; Looked after children; Social work practice
