Child Friendly Warwickshire

Children and young people in care must have a voice

What is the Children in Care Council?

It’s a group of children and young people aged 11 to 17 who meet once a month. They act as a voice for every child in the care of Warwickshire County Council. It’s a safe place to share experiences and expectations, and provides an opportunity to meet friends, but most importantly to make change.

We want to empower you to grow in confidence, to find your VOICE and to use it to make positive changes regarding your support and journey through care.

Meetings are arranged by the Voice, Influence and Change team and are usually held on the last Thursday of each month, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. We will listen and support you to get your views, thoughts and opinions heard by the people that matter.

Are you 11 to 17 years old and interested in supporting care experienced children and young people just like you?

If you are, let us know by completing the join us and make a difference form and a member of the CiCC team will be in touch.

You can also talk to your social worker/foster carer or email us: cicc_clf@warwickshire.gov.uk and find out more about Children in Care

Why join the Children in Care Council?

Some of the reasons you might want to join the Children in Care Council:

• You want to discuss a range of different topics that affect children and young people across Warwickshire, particularly those in the care system
• Share your ideas and help improve services for other children and young people who live in Warwickshire
• It’s a great way to meet other young people in similar situations
• Get to know your rights
• Help to change the views of people working in social care
• Represent the voice and views of care experienced children and young people at meetings
• Take part in projects, and help to recruit and train staff
• There are opportunities to get involved with workshops, trips, training, interviewing, conferences and a whole lot more
• Present your ideas to adults who make important decisions
• You want to talk to the leader of the council or MPs

More ways to be heard

Every child and young person is a member of our community and society. To truly be part of a county that is child friendly, the voice of young people must be heard to help shape our future. We will take all opportunities available to involve children and young people in real decision making and allow their voices to make a difference.

There are many ways to do this, including encouraging young people to register to vote before they turn 18 years old. 

More information about the support available for young people who are leaving care

Find out about how to become more child friendly