My Voice Matters is a new tool that helps children and young people share their views and be involved in decisions that affect them. It will be introduced gradually, so everyone gets the support they need to use it in a way that works best for them.
Children and young people can share their views with their Child Safety Officer and be included in developing their Care Plan. It is also a good way for adults to check that a child or young person is doing ok, and what matters most to them.
How can I do the My Voice Matters tool?
If you are a young person aged 5-17 currently in care and want to do My Voice Matters:
- Ask your Child Safety Officer to help you access a printed copy of the tool.
OR - If you are keen to do the tool on your own, you can view the online version below and print it out. But you’ll need to work with your Child Safety Officer to make sure your answers are recorded and included in decision making.
My Voice Matters FAQs
What is the My Voice Matters tool about?
My Voice Matters was created by young people with a care experience.
It is for children and young people aged 5-17 currently in care.
It’s all about having a say and being included in what is important to you.
You can let adults know a little or a lot about what you need. The sections include:
Things I Need, Participating, Loved Safe and Valued, Learning, Culture and Identity, and Transition to Independence (if you are 15+).
Each section starts with an intro that tells you what the section is about.
Do I have to do My Voice Matters if I’m aged 5-17 and in out of home care?
The tool is voluntary, which means you can choose to do it or not.
You can choose to do the tool on your own, or with support from your Child Safety Officer.
If you do not want to do the tool, that is OK. Your Child Safety Officer will work with you to hear how you want to share your views.
What are the benefits of the tool?
My Voice Matters provides choice for you to share your views and bring influence into your Care Team and Care Plan.
It provides an opportunity to have a conversation with your Child Safety Officer, and safely explore things that may need to change.
The tool will help your Child Safety Officer prioritise what matters to you most in your Care Plan.
Who will see my answers?
Your Child Safety Officer will see your answers, and it may be shared with your care team.
But if there is anyone you do not want to share your answers with, you can write that down at the beginning of the tool.
If you did My Voice Matters on your own, you can choose if you would like to talk over your answers with your Child Safety Officer.
If your answers show that you or someone else might be unsafe, your Child Safety Officer will find someone to help as soon as possible.
Your answers will be stored securely by the Department for Education, Children and Young People.
Will I get a copy of my answers?
Yes, you can. You can choose if you want a copy once you complete the tool. It can be sent to you via email or post.
How long will My Voice Matters take?
It will take you about 20 minutes to complete the tool. It could take longer if you do it with support from your Child Safety Officer and talk about your answers as you go.
Do I have to answer all of the questions?
No, if you do not want to answer a question you can skip it.
You can choose to complete the ‘A little to say’ or ‘A lot to say’ version.
If you want to give more information, you can write in the “tell us more” box at the end of My Voice Matters.
You can stop doing My Voice Matters at any time without having to give a reason.
How often can I do the tool?
Your Child Safety Officer will offer My Voice Matters to you each year.
You can choose if you’d like to do it more.