Youth Voice in Solihull

Youth voice is about giving young people a say in decisions about the things that matter to them. This could be planning, implementation and/or as feedback of a service they have used, or a topic that affects them. Research shows that the more young people have a say in services that affect them, the more effective these services are, which in turn, makes them more efficient and impactful. Successful youth voice programmes empower young people to understand themselves and helps them to feel a sense of belonging in their community, school or environment. Solihull Council are committed to true participation with young people and the following programmes are our way to ensure that young people can have a say in the borough.

Photo of youth bus
photo of event with children
photo of young people in the youth bus

Youth Voice Network

An exciting new network for young people aged 14–18 years old, launching in Autumn 2025. The network combines work experience programmes and youth voice opportunities. Term-time and holiday programmes for young people to apply directly to, or for schools, youth groups and Elected Home Educators to refer young people to. The week-long project will involve working on a key part of policy, needs assessment or service development within The Council. Young people involved will gain meaningful work experience, learn how to conduct market research, gain an insight into the workings of local government, meet people who make decisions on the topic they are working on and develop their teamwork, confidence and self-efficacy.

For more information, please contact youthoffer@solihull.gov.uk

Our Voices Heard

Our Voices Heard have several measures in place to ensure they listen to a diverse range of children, young people and young adult voices. They provide free membership for anyone to sign up to, this enables them to ensure people are aware of their work and the events they run. Our Voices Heard! - Solihull Parent Carer Voice

To find out more contact clare.hughes@spcv.org.uk or tracy.inman@spcv.org.uk

Our Voice, Our Service (OVOS)

We have care experienced young people as members of our corporate parenting panel, so that they are a part of the strategic conversations to shape services. The children and young people representatives will link with OVOS to represent the views of a wider group of children and young people and share feedback as we progress. Through OVOS, we also provide training and support for children and young people on how to be effective advocates and represent their views. Ovos Solihull | CiCC | Care Experienced

To find out more email ovos@solihull.gov.uk