A study into children and young people’s participation in their Child in Care Reviews
Summary
The ExChange Wales analysis highlights how children and young people who are looked after often feel excluded from the decision‑making processes in their Child in Care Reviews. Drawing on research that interviews children, young people, social workers, independent reviewing officers (IROs) and senior managers, the study shows that many young participants misunderstand the purpose of review meetings and report finding them frustrating and stressful. Poor relationships with social workers and high workload pressures on professionals were linked to negative experiences and limited engagement. While professionals recognise the importance of participation in principle, practical commitment is often minimal, and senior managers’ views can differ sharply from those of frontline staff and children themselves. The research suggests that giving young people greater control — for example by supporting them to chair their own reviews — could strengthen meaningful involvement and promote confidence and empowerment as they prepare to leave care.
