Participation is a right. In fact, we have a say/voice since we are born in this world. Care of children and young people in social care system it is organized to ensure their right of participation or their right to tell opinion/view about aspect of life affecting them. Sometimes the practice has shown the opposite of participation. Most of the times there are adults to decide about their future. In many policies and practice and legal acts the right to be heard it is protected by constitution. Children and young people need to be heard and enroll in different process of care with the aim of changing practice or policies that are affecting negatively them. It is about of improve the system and society. This can be done only if we as a society work with the Theory of change!
We have seen children/young people as key stakeholders and built a culture of participation in our MA based on our practice. Child and youth participation occurs to various degrees and always jointly with adults and taking children’s welfare into account. Through such participation, children and young people also develop skills, build competencies, acquire confidence and form aspirations. Participation is being part of!! Non-participation is the process when others are deciding for you on matters that affect you and you are just informed – such as for your information.
Participation in and use of the individual development plan. A process in which child/youngster outlines his/her needs and is active to fulfill and meet his/her developmental needs with other professionals in care services. Children’s and young people’s participation is ensured in ways appropriate to their age and maturity during different processes such as:
In each service, there are regular discussions for collaborative decision-making in line with the location’s specific needs. Improvement of program/services through active participation in design, evaluation, and program planning is ensured.
Consultations with children for the strategic directions of MA. Children’s views were reflected in the main directions of the National strategy 2023-2025. By including the voices of children, we ensure the programs we design are relevant for them. In close consultation with children for the implementation of OMBUD approach, which will be an added channel to share concerns and report incidents.