Towards a Participation Framework for Eurochild Sean O’Neill Policy Director, Children in Wales

United Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Article 12 – Children have the right to say what they think should happen when adults are making decisions that affect them, and to have their opinions taken into account Welsh Assembly Government formally adopted the UNCRC to provide a foundation of principal for all issues relating to children. ‘Every child has the right to be consulted, to participate in decision making, to be heard on all matters that concern them, or have an impact on their lives’

Taking Participation forward in Funky Dragon (Children & Young People’s Assembly for Wales) Youth Councils & Forums School Councils Participation Consortium (partnership body) Welsh Assembly Participation Project Children’s Commissioner for Wales Local Services / Projects National Participation Website & Resources

Key drivers for change Rights based agenda Children’s competence Better understanding of the benefits Response to ‘Childism’ Consumer movement Partnership working and shared learning Leadership and Commitment

Benefits of Participation (Children) Opportunity to express their needs Empathy with others Enhances communication skills Gain insight and information Develop decision making skills Gain confidence and improved self-esteem

Benefits of Participation (Professionals)  Relationships become stronger  Sense of ownership over their environment  Greater co-operation – activities & rules  Enable adults to work more effectively  Services reflects the needs of ALL children  Activities/services to meet the needs of children

Barriers to Participation Attitudes Expectations of children - ‘Can do’ Vs ‘Can’t do’ Child as a barrier Dependency Resources Role of adults as protectors – ‘managing risk’

Additional Barriers to Participation (marginalised & disadvantaged groups) Physical barriers Financial barriers Social & Cultural barriers Mistrust barriers Professional skills barrier Increased attitudinal barriers

The Way Forward Shared understanding of Participation to inform the framework Key principles VoluntaryNon-Discriminatory InformedRespectful Best InterestFeedback Review ‘Having a Voice, Having a Choice’ ‘Nothing about us, without us’

Framework will also require Commitment and leadership Ways to address the barriers Structure and Opportunities Inclusion Shared working and practice Involvement of Children & Young People to help inform the agenda

Diolch am gwrando – Thank you for listening