Why listen to the voice of children and young people?

Derby City Council and our partners have a legal duty to make sure that we provide children and young people in Derby with an opportunity to have their say. 

This duty covers all children and young people; from those attending schools to those who may be receiving a specific service.

All Councils have a duty to listen to children and young people but we want to do more than just ‘ticking a box’. We strive to do more by, where possible, doing something about what they tell us. There are many mutual benefits with this:

• Services delivered will be child-centred that meets each child and young person’s individual needs.
• If they feel what they say matters this will build their confidence and self-esteem.
• There will be opportunities to learn new skills.
• They will become potential active citizens and engage in democracy.
• The outcomes for children and young people will improve.
• We will develop services that are ‘fit for purpose’
• Their imagination and 'out of the box' perspective will mean service design and delivery will be ‘innovative’.
• They will feel respected and valued.

Are you Listening?

View a short film titled 'Was not Heard' which talks about the importance of listening to the voices of children and young people.

Warning: Please be aware the video contains flickering and flashing images which may be unsuitable for people with conditions such as photo-sensitive epilepsy.