Youth Voice

Youth Voice (formerly known as Children in Care Council) is a group of children and young people with experience of being in care. They help improve how children are cared for in Oxfordshire. There are Chairs, Deputies and Ambassadors who drive forward the agenda.  

Youth Voice news:

Sailing Event

Youth Voice had a lovely sailing event this July, when 23 young people from the ages 10-21 came together like a family, helping each other overcome issues together through sailing. The young people were set into pairs or in threes to learn how to sail as well as having a fun time out on the reservoir at Farmoor, thanks to Oxford Sail Training Club and the Waterside café. All the young people enjoyed the day and were looking forward to doing it again next year!

Care Leavers Survey

Keep an eye out for the Care Leavers Survey coming out on the 28th October!

Take action: You can download the Youth Voice Banner to find out more about what they do and how you can get involved. 

About Youth Voice

Youth Voice, which sits in the Virtual School, helps make sure Oxfordshire County Council lives up to the promises it made to look after children and young people in care, as best as they can. This is called ‘Corporate Parenting’, and there is a Corporate Parenting Panel which works with Youth Voice members to make sure adults hear what children and young people are saying and do something about it. 

Youth Voice have four main meetings a year with Senior Officers so major issues can be discussed. There are also many ways in which we try to hear the voices of those in care, including: Mind Of My Own app, surveys and events. Youth Voice members also participate in a number of events and conferences to promote their cause. 

Have questions? If you have any questions about being a member, please contact: youth.voice@oxfordshire.gov.uk 

Being a Youth Voice member

Any child or young person who is in care or leaving, or has a social worker care can join Youth Voice. 

You should be enthusiastic and passionate about helping improve the care system and try to attend our meetings, which are informal, relaxed and fun. It’s your chance to have a say and make friends along the way.

Apart from having fun we chat about issues which are important to you. So we could ask about your education or if you feel safe, but we will never put you on the spot! We promise to listen to you, take you seriously and feedback to you on what has happened as a result.

Being a member is voluntary, but you get a Certificate of Involvement and learn new skills which may be useful for life, school, college, university or an apprenticeship.

Take action: Want to share your thoughts? You can join Youth Voice, send a message via Mind Of My Own app, mid of my own, or contact the team: youth.voice@oxfordshire.gov.uk

About the meetings

If  you can't use public transport safely, or get a lift, we may be able to arrange transport for you. We also have nice food, and you will get a reward for your participation. This is your opportunity to make a real difference!

How to apply

Any child or young person who is in or leaving care, or has a social worker care can join Youth Voice, and help make a real difference for Children in Care in Oxfordshire. If you're interested in joining please contact:

• James Collins on 07803 287813, or email james.collins@oxfordshire.gov.uk
• Jay Leach on 07712 237002, or email jay.leach@oxfordshire.gov.uk