Derby City Council is seeking input from people with experience of growing up in the care system. Following feedback from children who have lived in care about the stigma they face, the Council has launched a 12-week consultation to gather real-life experiences.
In September 2024 the full Council voted unanimously to award care experienced people in Derby ‘protected characteristic’ status, a motion that represents a positive step towards supporting them in overcoming these barriers.
The results of the survey on Let’s Talk DerbyOpens in new tab will help develop and implement the Care Experienced Protected Characteristic, which means those who are in care, who are care leavers, or who have had a past experience of care, will have the same protection from discrimination as other characteristics under the Equality Act in Derby.
It recognises that many care leavers nationally face ongoing stigma, challenges and discrimination across housing, health, education, employment and in the criminal justice system.
The short survey asks about the barriers faced by those who are care-experienced and what support would be useful. It’s open to anyone with care experience, whether they are currently in care, or have been in the past.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
If you have care experience, please take a moment to complete this brief survey. Your insights are vital in shaping the Care Experienced Protected Characteristic in Derby.
Our focus is on ensuring children and young people with care experience are safe, healthy, and supported through their transition to successful independent lives.
The survey is available online at Let’s Talk DerbyOpens in new tab and is open until Friday 20 June. Anyone who would like to receive the survey in paper form, another language or different format like large print or easy read, contact the team on 01332 64000 or email letstalkderby@derby.gov.ukOpens in new tab.
You can learn more about our work with children in care on our website, including our Care Leavers Local Offer, the Children’s Rights Service and the Our Voice, Our Success group for young people.