During a debate on the Children and Young Persons Bill peers argued for official, independent advocates to be appointed to represent children and young people.
Liberal Democrat peer Baroness Joan Walmsley, said: "By supporting children in reviews and planning meetings, professional independent advocacy empowers them to have their views taken seriously, as required in law."
Her views were echoed by crossbencher the Earl of Listowel, who said: "An advocate can develop a relationship with a young person over time and engender the trust and safety needed for them to raise child protection issues and any other issues of concern to them."
During the three debates held last week there were also discussions on reducing out of area placements, improving support for grandparents acting as carers, and contact with siblings.
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