What do the words professionals use actually mean?

Accomodated

This is another word for being Looked After by social services.

Advocacy

An Advocate is a person who can support what you have to say, e.g. If you want an adult to be with you when you make a complaint and talk on your behalf.

Allowances

This is the money you are allowed. You should get pocket money every week, plus a certain amount on your birthday and at Christmas.

Assessment

This is to look into your needs within a certain area. For example Medical, Social services, Education

Care Plan

This is a plan that is decided with you about how best to care for you, and to make sure you have a good quality of care whilst you are looked after by social services.

Care Order

This is an order made by the court. This means that social services can make decisions together with your parents about things such as where you live and how often you have contact with your family. If however, your parents and social services dont agree then social services will decide.

Childrens Guardian

In some Court Proceedings relating to children a Childrens Guardian is Appointed by the Court. The Childrens Guardian will look after your best interest's in Court and will also appoint a solicitor who will represent you in court.

Childrens Rights

You have what are called "Rights". For a child in care this means "Having the right to have your voice heard and to be listened to" and

"Having your opinions taken into account when decisions are made about you". If these rights arent being respected you also have

"The right to complain".

Complaints Officer

A Complaints Officer works for the Complaints Department at Social Services. They are the people who will contact you if you make a complaint to social services.

ContacT

This is the word used to describe when and how you see your family and relatives.

Foster Care

This is when you are looked after within a family situation by foster carers.

In Care

This is when you are cared for by social services (see Looked After)

Independant Reviewing Officer (IRO)

IRO's will visit you before your review at least every six months and help you have a say in your care plan and help you share your views. They will look after your best interests and advocate on your behalf. They can help you independantly of your Social Worker