Sandwell Advocacy is dedicated to providing independent advocacy throughout Sandwell, focusing on promoting rights, amplifying voices, and empowering individuals. Our work is delivered through various projects, including the SAVE Project – Sandwell Advocacy Voice Empowerment.
The SAVE Project offers independent advocacy for children and young people aged 5 to 18 who are facing challenges related to mental health or behavioural issues.
Common issues affecting these children and young people include poor school attendance, low educational attainment, and a decline in mental health. We strive to build trusting relationships to ensure that their rights are respected and their voices are heard.
CASE STUDY
P was referred to SAVE (Sandwell Advocacy Voice Empowerment ) for advocacy support due to her struggles with mental health, anxiety, and challenging behaviour in school. Her frequent outbursts and difficulty managing anger were significantly impacting her learning outcomes. The referrer hoped that advocacy support would provide P with a safe and nurturing environment to openly discuss the issues affecting her, fostering better self-expression and emotional regulation.
P fully engaged in the advocacy process, revealing that she felt overwhelmed by the volume of work, making it difficult for her to focus and concentrate. When challenged, she would often lash out, leading to frequent reports and being removed from classes due to her disruptive behaviour and disregard for authority.
P acknowledged that her behaviour was spiralling out of control and recognised that she needed help but did not know how to ask for it. The advocacy sessions provided a judgment-free space where she could openly share her feelings, concerns, and thoughts. A range of strategies and interventions, including support from other agencies, were implemented to help P stay focused.
In response, the school agreed to implement specific measures to support P’s learning. Teachers, under the guidance of the head of the department, were instructed to break tasks down into manageable chunks and use task management boards to aid P in lessons.
Before Advocacy Support – P’s Perspective on Education and Learning:
“I find it hard to focus and struggle to ask for help.”
After Advocacy Support – P’s Perspective on Education and Learning:
“My attitude toward education and learning has changed. I’m more focused. I passed maths , which I didn’t think I could. Now, I feel like I’m on my way to achieving my goal of becoming a paramedic .”
Before Advocacy Support – P’s Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviour:
“I don’t like to talk about my feelings. I find it difficult to express how I feel.”
After Advocacy Support – P’s Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviour:
“My behaviour in school has improved significantly. I’m finding it easier to express how I feel. Before, if I was upset, I would storm out of the lesson. Now, I talk about how I feel and ask for help “
Find out more about our SAVE project and Mental Health Awareness Week 12th – 18th May 2025.