Young people in care came together in Scarborough last week to give their views and help the county’s decision-makers improve services for looked-after children and young people in North Yorkshire.
The Consultation Day (C-Day) was organised by the county’s Young People’s Council which represents children and young people in the care system. A group of 17 gathered at The Street in Scarborough to share their experiences of life in care and to put their views to the Young People’s Council which gives feedback to the county council’s policy makers to improve services.
This is one of three C-Days planned for 2014/15; the next will take place in Harrogate during February.
The day in Scarborough included the chance to tackle a climbing wall; a rap workshop exploring what life is like in care; and a consultation on hobbies and sports by the Who Cares Trust.
Representatives from a range of organisations also helped the young people explores issues such as health and advocacy.
Steph Spaven, chair of the Young People’s Council, said: It was great to see the young people attend C-Day in Scarborough. We now have lots of feedback which we will be collating and presenting to decision makers within children’s social care. Working with the team at North Yorkshire County Council we aim to ensure young people get a good service.
County Councillor Tony Hall, North Yorkshire’s Executive Member for Youth Services said: Consultation Days are a real opportunity for children and young people with experience of care to get their views heard where it matters.
It is crucial to officers and members at the county council’s services that young people’s voices are listened to and taken into account when bringing about change and improvement.
If you would like to get involved or find out more about the YPC contact: James Parkes, Participation Officer
james.parkes@northyorks.gov.uk 01609 533932
www.nyyss.org/ypc / www.facebook.com/youngpeoplescouncil / www.twitter.com/ypcny
