This 2 day basic level course is designed for those about to undertake the independent visitor role for the first time, or those who need to refresh their knowledge and skills. You will explore the role of the Independent Visitor, the skills you bring and how to befriend and support children and young people in care.

You will learn about the variety of different settings in which young people live, how they come into care and the issues that they face. You will also gain a brief overview of children’s rights and understand how important your role is in improving the lives of young people within the care system.

“Stimulating and varied, covered everything that I need in my role – thanks!” Independent Visitor

Who the course is for

We recommend this training for those who are fairly new to this work. For professionals who are already working within this arena and wish to further their skills as an advocate we recommend ‘Being a Voice’ our 3 day comprehensive training in children’s rights and advocacy.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

Day 1

• Summarise why, where, how and when young people are ‘looked after’
• Describe what it feels like to be in care, and some of the outcomes for looked after young people
• Explain the role of an Independent Visitor
• Demonstrate practical communication skills

Day 2

• Summarise the roles and responsibilities of Independent Visitors
• Recognise safeguarding issues, and explain what to do if you have a concern
• Summarise the rights of looked after children and the role of Children’s Services

Course information

This is a 2-day course with extensive course materials.

Also recommended

Being A Voice, An Introduction to Advocacy.

Click below to download the course leaflet.