While local authorities are not legally required to use independent providers to supply people who promote the rights of children in care, advocacy groups fear if services are internally managed, children will be unable to voice opinions openly.
The council's complaints department is now handling advocacy services after the charity which previously ran them withdrew.
Jon Fayle, head of Children Law UK, part of Tact, said: "It would be helpful if the government was to provide guidance or a requirement for authorities to use an independent provider."
An Oxfordshire council spokesman said: "This model is designed to offer best value and engage more with service users."
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