Medway, Kent has set off on a journey to shine a light on the experiences of its youngest residents. A well-respected local authority survey, which just launched shortly before the event, helped to provide fertile ground for discussion. Together, they hope to build an authentic community that amplifies the voices of children and young people. Background on the National Survey The National Survey first launched in 2021. It has gotten a truly amazing 3,000 responses from Medway’s young people.
Please complete our survey to help us learn about the experiences of children and young people growing up in Medway. We aim to understand what their daily lives are truly like. More than anything else, this initiative highlights the need for government to actively involve young people in understanding their needs, concerns, and dreams. Together, these responses will provide deep cross-sector insights. These learnings can inform future policy and programs aimed at making young residents’ experiences better and safer.
Since its inception in 2021, the survey has served as a critical tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by young people in the area. The thoughtful design reflects the breadth of human experience from classroom to outdoor classroom to playground. This innovative approach creates a rich long term view of what life is like for Medway’s young people.
The local authority is clearly committed to hearing the views of the children and young people. This initiative is part of a broader push for more inclusive decision-making processes. Medway is constantly looking for suggestions. This novel approach looks to develop a more adaptive environment tuned to the individual needs of its most precious asset, its young people. This kind of participatory approach is empowering for young people and it guarantees that their voices are central to the process of building their community.
The notable response rate, exceeding 3,000 submissions, proves that young people are willing to participate. They want to be engaged in shaping their own lives and futures. Through this engagement, people saw their desire to be heard, their need to be heard, and their recognition of themselves as vital contributors to society. Ideally, their findings will shape similar initiatives in the future. Together, these initiatives will provide Medway’s children and young people with the best possible start in life.
