Child Friendly Warwickshire

Getting the voices of young people heard

What is the Care Leavers Forum?

It’s a group of young people who meet once a month. They act as a voice for every child in the care of Warwickshire County Council, particularly those who will be ‘aging out’ of the system in the near future. 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 and beyond.

Meetings are arranged by the Voice, Influence and Change team. 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 CLF team will be in touch.

You can also talk to your social worker/foster carer or email us: cicc_clf@warwickshire.gov.uk

Why join the Care Leavers Forum?

Some of the reasons you might want to join the Care Leavers Forum:

• 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
• Represent the voice and views of care experienced children and young people at meetings
• Discuss WCC’s Local Offer and how to review and improve it
• 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