Facing a child protection case can be a stressful and confusing time for parents, who may feel isolated or overwhelmed by the process. To address this, Mental Health Matters Wales has created the Parents’ Protection and Advocacy Support Service (PPASS), providing a lifeline for parents within Neath Port Talbot and Swansea local authorities. Independent from Social Services, PPASS is a dedicated service to help parents navigate child protection services with confidence and clarity.
How PPASS Can Help Parents in Child Protection Cases
At PPASS, we are committed to supporting parents through every step of the child protection process. Here’s how MHM Wales can make a difference:
Clarifying Decisions: PPASS helps parents to understand decisions made about them or their child, explaining the reasons behind actions taken by Social Services or the court.
Guiding Engagement: Engaging with Social Services and the court’s requirements can be crucial for a positive outcome. Our support helps parents understand why it’s essential to participate in activities or actions laid out in the child protection plan.
Empowering Voices: PPASS advocates work with parents to express their views and wishes effectively, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered.
Representing Concerns: If parents are unhappy with how they are being treated by Social Services or have concerns about plans being made, our advocates are there to speak on their behalf, ensuring their concerns are addressed.
Explaining Rights: Navigating the system can feel daunting, but parents have rights, too. PPASS helps them understand these rights to make informed decisions.
Supporting Complaints: When parents need to make a formal complaint, our advocates are there to assist, ensuring their grievances are communicated appropriately.
The Role of Our Advocates
Our advocates are central to the PPASS service, providing a strong, knowledgeable presence throughout the child protection process. They work closely with parents to:
Attend Key Meetings: Advocates accompany parents to child protection conferences, reviews, and court hearings, providing both moral and practical support.
Assist in Meetings with Professionals: Whether meeting with Social Services or other professionals, advocates support parents to ensure their voices are heard and respected.
Preparation and Follow-up: Advocates meet parents before and after child protection conferences, reviews, court hearings, and other meetings to clarify decisions and help them understand the actions discussed.
The Support Worker’s Role
In addition to advocates, our support workers offer valuable help, guiding parents through the often-complex child protection system. Their role includes:
Providing Step-by-Step Support: Support workers are available to help parents understand and navigate each stage of the child protection process, alleviating stress and confusion.
Encouraging Positive Outcomes: By empowering parents and guiding them through the process, support workers help foster more positive outcomes for children and families.
Reducing Future Demand: The support and guidance provided by our team often reduces the need for future intervention, as parents are equipped with the knowledge and skills to move forward confidently.
Contributing to Fewer Court Cases: By providing proactive support, our service helps parents engage with Social Services effectively, reducing the likelihood of cases progressing to court.
Why Choose PPASS?
PPASS is led by experienced advocates and support workers who not only bring professional expertise but also a deep understanding of the challenges parents face. With personal insights into the child protection system, our team is here to provide parents with a sense of empowerment, guidance, and independence during this challenging time. We know the importance of having someone who truly understands on your side.
If you’re a parent in Neath Port Talbot or Swansea involved in a child protection case, know that PPASS is here for you – to ensure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and that you’re fully supported every step of the way.
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