As we approach the next General Election, #TheBigAmbition is an opportunity for children and young people to tell the Children’s Commissioner what you need to make your lives better.
#TheBigAmbition survey is for children and young people in England aged 6-18 and parents or carers of children and young people in England aged 0-6.
The Children’s Commissioner wants to hear from all children and young people, in every part of the country and in every setting. The survey will be used to encourage policymakers to think about your needs, to ensure your voices are reflected in the decisions that will affect you in years to come.
We encourage you to have your say and ensure your voice is heard. You can find out more and take part in the survey here.
In the survey, one of the questions the Children’s Commissioner wants to know your thoughts on is: ‘What should Government be doing to make children’s lives better?’
To support the launch, we asked care experienced young people for their say on this question, here is what you told us.
I personally think the Government should listen to the voices of children and young people, involve them in decision-making processes and create policies that address their specific needs and concerns.
The Government should also focus on promoting equal opportunities and reducing inequalities amongst children and young people. Everyone should have a fair chance to succeed regardless of their background and upbringing. Together we can create a brighter future for all children and young people. So, let’s advocate for a positive change now!
As I feel we are at risk of the children and young people of today will be adults before crucial changes are implemented.
Ryan
The government must take a proactive stance in bolstering agencies and organisations that address early mental health challenges in children, recognising that their support is paramount.
To significantly improve children’s lives, the government should allocate substantial resources and funding to empower these agencies.
Tiana
By taking assertive steps, we can prioritise early intervention, emotional intelligence education, accessible counselling services, mental health education, supportive environments, and accessible resources, collectively working towards a resilient and thriving generation of children.
For adopted children there are six key things I think the Government should prioritise to make life better.
1 – Education
2 – Training for teachers and professionals who are involved in the young person’s life
3 – Life outside school
5 – Life outside work
5 – Physical wellbeing
6 – Mental health and wellbeing.
This is important as I don’t want other children to go through what I went through.
Carla
The government should put the voices of children and young people at the centre of everything they do. In order to provide young people with the opportunity to express themselves, the government must establish rules that allow them to do so.
Children and young people should have greater access to opportunities and resources that will enable them to succeed. Especially young people and children whose families may be financial challenged, they should be supported in participating in opportunities that will improve their lives. Ambitious goals for children and young people require a change in the way we view children’s lives and how we influence them.
It is important that all young people are supported throughout their journey through education, training, and employment (self-employment). There is also a need for the government to focus on racism, equal opportunities, mental health and wellbeing. There should be a sense of belonging and importance for every child and young person.
Benita
The government should be promoting their resources more. They should have organisations that help with mental health etc. I don’t think it’s well-publicised so maybe they need to be more involved on social media to reach young people.
The government should be promoting their resources more. They should have organisations that help with mental health etc. I don’t think it’s well-publicised so maybe they need to be more involved on social media to reach young people.
Emie
The government should be able to provide adequate housing and jobs for young people. They shouldn’t have to worry about where they are going to live and struggle on benefits. The government needs to promote ways to get more young people in jobs that are suitable and understanding to the young person’s situation.
In regards to the care system children should be placed in a care placement that is the right match rather than just putting them in a place just because the carer is available. This can lead to the child/young people having a bad experience as the carer is unable to cater to the child needs as needed e.g. the carer is not from the same cultural background, or the young person is placed in an area where the demographic is different to what they are used to
Teslimah
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