Young people in care have their say on health
Around 100 young people in care attended Cafcass' Health and
Wellbeing Consultation at the National Space Centre in
Leicester on 20th February.
The purpose of the day was to give young people in care an
opportunity to have their say about their health and
wellbeing, key issues that affect them, and what the government
should be doing to help them.
Several focus groups were
conducted on topics such as smoking, drugs,
alcohol, sexual health and emotional health. The
contributions from participants and outcomes from
the day will be published and made widely available.
One of the key things young people told us on the day was
that they did not feel their views were listened to and considered
when making decisions about their health care. They also wanted
more information
made easily accessible for them.
Christine Smart, Children's Rights Director said: "The day is
about giving young people a 'right of reply' to tell us what
health issues are important to them. Their contribution can help us
understand the services we and our partner agencies such as local
authorities and NHS Trusts will need to commission and provide in
the future to better meet their needs."
Left: Cafcass Chief Executive,
Anthony Douglas, presents young people with prizes for
participating in the day.