Children and Young People

Look out for a survey about how we can listen to you better coming soon.

We have already met with parents and carers. You can read what they said here:

Working together to make a better SEND Local Offer for Wakefield

National opportunities to get involved

Click on the boxes below to find out more about:

The Big Future Survey
Fair Education Alliance - Youth Steering Group (Aged 14 - 21)
Leaders Unlocked - Youth Panel (16 - 25)

Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, has launched The Big
Future survey. This is a national opportunity for children and young people to share their
views, experiences, and hopes for the future.
Taking part gives young people the chance to directly influence future policy, practice, and
services that aim to improve outcomes for them. As a Youth Council, we’re encouraging as
many young people as possible to get involved so their voices can help shape both national
work and what happens locally in Wakefield.
You can find out more and access the survey here:

https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/the-big-future/

Deadline: 28 June 2026

This is a great opportunity for young people who are passionate about making education
fairer. The Youth Steering Group brings together young people aged 14–21 to lead
campaigns, influence education policy, and make sure young voices are heard at the highest
levels.
Over the last year, members have met with the Prime Minister, presented to MPs in
Parliament, and worked with the Department for Education.

Find out more and apply: https://www.faireducation.org.uk/youth-steering-group

Deadline: 29 May 2026 | Voluntary role

Leaders Unlocked are recruiting young people from across England and Wales to join a
Youth Panel linked to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Panel members will help run influencing events that capture and amplify young people’s
views on key issues, particularly around policing and justice. They are especially keen to
hear from those with lived experience of alternative education, the care system, or the
criminal justice system.

This is a chance for young people to bring their experiences directly to decision-makers and
work with others to develop real solutions for change.

For further information and how to apply: https://leaders-unlocked.org/job-opportunity/iopc-youth-panel-recruiting-new-members-for-2026-7/