An Independent Visitor, also known as an IV, is a trained volunteer who is matched with a looked after child or young person to befriend them and act as a positive role-model. They build “trusting, positive relationships with them over time” (National Standards for the Provision of Independent Visitor Services, p.3). The role was introduced as a statutory service in the Children Act 1989 but remains a hidden entitlement that many professionals, care-experienced children and young people are unaware of.
This report sets out findings from the NIVN’s latest Freedom of Information (FOI) investigation on the extent of current IV provision. 146 out of 152 Local Authorities responded to the FOI made this year, compared to 152 (100%) in 2019 in England while 21 out of 22 unitary authorities responded to the FOI in Wales. It also draws on best practice examples and learning from regional and national activity to make recommendations on improving and sustaining the reach, consistency and quality of IV services.