This paper examines the potential for advocacy in social care services supporting refugees and asylum seekers, drawing on evidence and material from a service development intervention for staff working in a local refugee support and advice service in the UK. Different approaches to advocacy are discussed in relation to the needs and experiences of refugees and the aims of the service. The training model and service profile (the case study) is outlined and the issues raised by the intervention analysed, with case examples provided. The accompanying discussion suggests ways to develop effective advocacy work with refugees and asylum seekers in both statutory and voluntary support and advice services. © Oxford University Press 2004; all rights reserved.

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United Kingdom Eurasia Western Europe refugee welfare provision Social Work Europe asylum seeker advocacy