During times of change, uncertainty and fewer resources, adults setting the agendas need to be sure that the services and activities invested in are relevant and will be used by us, as young people.

Richard Serunjogi Co-chair of the National Participation Forum

What is participation?

Participation Works uses the following definition of participation:

"Participation is a process where someone influences decisions about their lives and this leads to change."

Treseder, Empowering Children and Young People, Children's Rights Office/Save the Children, 1997.

Why involve Children and Young People?

The United Convention on the Rights of the Child Article 12 states:

"Children and young people have a right to have a say on all issues that affect them and for these views to be taken seriously."

The involvement of children and young people has many benefits to both the children and young people who are asked to get involved and for the organisations involving children and young people:

For children and young people the benefits include -

• They are more likely to respect others, if they feel their own voice is valued.
• They have an opportunity to learn about team work, listening to others, confidence
• Being listened to has a protective effect as well - they are more likely to speak up when they're being hurt.

For organisations the benefits include -

• Services are better because the people who use them shape them.
• Money is saved by changing services that are not required or run well
• CYP involvement can be a requirement of major commissioning, funding and assessing bodies

For more information download the National Youth Agency's Briefing: Involving Children and Young People - An Introduction

Further Information

There is lots going on with children and young people's participation both in the local area and nationally and there are is a wealth of resources, tools, information and guidance available to help you get to grips with it. Click on the links below to find out more about:

• Active Involvement in Leicester
• Active Involvement in Leicestershire 
• Active Involvement in Rutland
• Hear By Right
• Resources, Support and Further Information