In autumn 2024, following the general election and appointment of a new Children’s Minister, A National Voice (ANV), the Children in Care Council for England, launched a consultation to gather the views of care-experienced young people.
We asked: What do you want the new Children’s Minister to focus on to make care better?
325 children and young people from 45 local authorities took part, sharing their priorities, personal experiences, and powerful messages for change.
Our top three priorities
Better mental health support
Young people told us their mental health impacts every part of life and that current services are too stretched and difficult to access.
Listen to young people in decisions about their lives
They want to be involved in decisions that affect them, not just tick-boxed – real listening, transparency, and respect matter.
Build good relationships
Children and young people value consistency and connection. They want professionals, carers, and services they can trust and build lasting relationships with.
Who took part?
- 325 care-experienced children and young people
- Responses came from 45 local authorities across England
- Aged 4–26+, with half under 18 and half over 18
- A good mix of backgrounds, genders, ethnicities, and abilities
- 282 participated through group workshops (run at events like Amplify or locally by CiCCs), and 43 responded individually online
Read the Messages to the Minister key documents
These documents outline the key messages shared by young people, along with powerful quotes and insight into what they feel needs to change in the care system.
Messages to the Minister - report and summary Messages to the Minister briefing papers and recommendationsGet involved
Help turn recommendations into real change
After reading the briefing papers, you may find recommendations that:
- you are already doing well in your area and could share as a practice example, or
- you would like to focus on locally and feedback what happens, including any impact or learning.
We believe in sharing what works and helping good ideas spread. If you have an example to share or would like to trial an approach and tell us what you learn, please email ANV@coramvoice.org.uk.
When you get in touch, it helps if you include:
- which briefing paper and recommendation you are referring to
- where the work is taking place (local authority, region, or organisation)
- a short summary of what you are doing already, or what you would like to focus on
- any early outcomes, feedback, or learning (if you have it)
Where appropriate, we will share learning and practice examples with the Minister and wider partners to help good practice travel further.
Watch this space!
We’ll be sharing updates as our work continues and new steps are taken.
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