CSSIW chief identifies ‘choice’ as key to better outcomes for young in care

Imelda Richardson, Chief Inspector of Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) , has said that the best way to improve outcomes for young people in care is to offer a wide range of support services, while ensuring children are listened too.

Ms Richardson, was speaking on a visit to Woodlands Children’s Development Centre, Wrexham, where she met with young people to listen to their experiences and concerns about social care, and to witness the work taking place at the centre to break down barriers to participation for young people in care.

She said: “We know that young people using care and support services can often feel disenfranchised and isolated from the decisions about their own care planning and that the individual needs of the young person are not always represented.

“To get the best possible outcomes for children and young people, we need to ensure there is a sufficient choice and opportunity to access services supporting their emotional and wellbeing needs and that their voices are heard.

“There should be no barriers to what young people in care can achieve but we must ensure that we ignite confidence in the care and support offered to them. I’ve been heartened to find the wealth of opportunities available for young people at Woodlands as well as the therapeutic and support services catering to their wellbeing.”