19 Mar 20
We want to reassure you that our services for children and young people will continue to run, despite the Coronavirus outbreak. Please continue to contact us in the usual ways.
Always Heard
If you are in care or a care leaver and need support from an Advocate, Always Heard, our advocacy helpline, Always Heard will continue to run as usual.
The line is open Monday to Friday 9.30am–6pm and Saturday 10am–4pm.
Freephone: 0808 800 5792.
WhatsApp: +44 (0)7758 670369
Text: 07758 670369
Email: help@coramvoice.org.uk
Advocates
Advocates can continue to support you by using phone, video calls and WhatsApp.
We are continuing to visit children’s homes where this is possible and where not have staff phoning in to provide advocacy support.
We have also been working with local authorities to trial ways we can continue to provide advocacy for children in child protection conferences and some of our advocates are now supporting remotely through video calls.
Independent Visitors
Independent Visors continue to work and are finding unique new ways to reach their matches during lockdown.
This includes making the most of phone and videos calls. One of our Independent Visitors brought her match a theory driving book so she can test them over a video call, in order to help them to pass their theory test. While another Independent Visitor and his match practice the guitar over a video call and also do drawing classes.
A National Voice
A National Voice has started an online community on Twitter using the hashtag #ANationalVoice.
We will be talking about the things that are important to children and young people and encouraging debate around people’s experiences with the care system, changes you would like to see and ways Coram Voice can better support you.
We will also be providing links to useful resources and sharing events, activities and opportunities happening at a local and national level.
Useful links
We know this is a very worrying time for everyone. You will find some really useful information about the Coronavirus and how to keep yourself safe and well at Become and also Article 39.