What does a family advocate do?

A Family Advocate plays a crucial role within a Child Advocacy Center, providing support and guidance to children and their families throughout the entire process. Their primary focus is to ensure that families receive the necessary resources, information, and emotional support to navigate the complexities of the legal system and any associated services.

Family Advocates serve as a compassionate and knowledgeable point of contact, helping families understand their rights, the services available to them, and the steps involved in the investigative process. They act as a liaison between the family and the various professionals involved, including law enforcement, social services, medical professionals, and legal personnel.

One of the key responsibilities of a Family Advocate is to empower and educate families, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the available support systems, counseling services, and legal options. They provide emotional support, actively listen to concerns, and address any questions or doubts, helping families feel empowered and informed throughout their journey.

In addition to emotional support, Family Advocates assist families in accessing resources such as therapy, counseling, medical care, and other essential services. They may help with arranging appointments, coordinating transportation, or connecting families with community organizations and support groups that specialize in child abuse or trauma-related issues.