Hearing the views of children and young people

How to consult with young people

We encourage all organisations that involve children to consult with children and young people. Drawing on our experience in children’s participation, we have created Children's Participation in Decision-making, Good Practice Guidance from the Ombudsman for Children's Office which outline some of the key things to consider when seeking to hear the views of children.

To learn more about how to do this access our sample Consent and Assent forms, as well as some really useful information.

Examples of when we talked to young people

The voices of children and young people are at the heart of everything the OCO does. Since the office was founded in 2004, we have spoken to children and young people about some very important issues. We particularly try to hear from children who are not often heard.

These are some of the projects we have worked on.

Recent projects

• Brexit consultation
• Children’s Participation in Decision-making
• Take My Hand 
• No Place Like Home 
• Direct Division
• Life in Lockdown
• Child talks

Past projects

• Joining the dots (2018)
• Tune in (2016) 
• Adoption Authority (2016)
• OCO 10th anniversary (2014)
• Bullying in school (2013)
• Family Law Project (2013)
• The Big Debate (2012)
• Children facing homelessness (2011)
• Young people in prison (2010)
• Separated Children (2009)
• Connecting Communities (2009)
• Big Ballot (2007)
• Youth Advisory Panel (2004-2009)