Young people in Jersey asked to set Children's Commissioner's priorities

Monday, 22 April 2024 08:20

Jersey's new Children's Commissioner is asking young people what she should prioritise, as she puts together a four-year plan.

Dr Carmel Corrigan is running a survey and visiting schools, asking children what matters most to them in her work to protect their rights.

She was appointed in November 2023 on a six year term, and took office earlier this year.

One of her first responsibilities is to draw up a new four-year strategic plan.

She says it will be based on what youngsters suggest:

"We don't want to guess and we don't want to make any assumptions. Whatever it is on the minds of children, whatever issue they want to raise with us, we are here to listen.

Hopefully, what this will result in is a strategic plan that is really unformed by the people that we work for."

The consultation opens today (22 April) and will run until 30 June.

There are three versions of the survey - one for under 13s, one for 13-17 year olds, and one for over 18s.

Dr Corrigan will also be visiting schools to hear directly from young people. Professionals working with young people and other groups will also be invited to contribute.

The plan will be published in September and presented to the States Assembly.