Young people's views
Kent County Council recognises the importance of hearing the
views of children and young people. One of our key
targets is to “listen to young people’s views and opinions and
develop their ideas to improve education and life in Kent”.
Not all children and young people are the same and so children
and young people are encouraged to give their views in different
ways according to their age and needs.
In 2009/10, nearly 40,000 children and young people took part in
a Kent survey. This provided a wealth of information on their views
and perceptions.
Attached is a link to the main report and feedback on the survey
for children, young people and the wider community.
In addition to the main survey, focus groups were held with some
children and young people who were not able to complete the survey
(perhaps due to disability or poor health or not having English as
a first language).
The findings from the main survey and the groups are used in
monitoring services and planning future services. For example it is
used in the development of the Kent Children
and Young People’s Plan.
There are many other ways that children and young people can
give their views. For example:
- Kent Youth County Council
- Kent Primary Children’s Council.
- Student councils and pupil voice activities in schools.
- Focus Groups.
- Connexions Groups.
- Kent Children in Care Council.
- Youth Action Groups
- Local Participation Groups.
- Youth Clubs.
Listening to the views of children and young people can help to
make sure services are responsive to the needs of children and
young people but there are also many benefits for young people
themselves - such as increased confidence and an opportunity to
influence decisions that affect their lives. If you are a young
person why not participate yourself?