First Minister commits to reform of children’s care services

First Minister Mark Drakeford has signed a declaration committing to radical reform of children’s care services in Wales.

The declaration has been developed by children and young people with experience of the care system, alongside Welsh Government ministers.

It outlines the Welsh Government’s commitment to involve children and young people more in upcoming changes to children’s services in Wales.

As part of the declaration, the Welsh Government wants to reduce the number of children and young people entering care, while ensuring those who are in care remain closer to home.

It comes after the first-ever summit for children and young people in care and care leavers in Wales, which was held in December.

Paris A’Herne, a young ambassador from Voices in Care Cymru, said: “[Ministers] know that while some young people have a really positive experience in care, too many are still let down.

“We know it will take time to deliver on everything we have agreed with ministers in this declaration, but we really believe that this time change is going to come.”

Fellow young ambassador Rhian Thomas said: “We want to make sure all children in the care system have the best possible experience, wherever in Wales they live.”

First Minister Mark Drakeford said the declaration was a “a true collaboration between children and young people and the Welsh Government”.

He continued: “We have committed to radical reform of care services for children and young people and this declaration will provide the blueprint for that work.”

He said the Welsh Government had listened to the young ambassadors and added: “Together we have developed this vision, which I am proud to put my name to as the First Minister of Wales.”

Deputy Minister for Social Services, Julie Morgan, said: “I want to see care-experienced children and young people thrive and grow, cared for and supported, and go on to achieve their full potential.

“We are committed to achieve that and have listened to the children and young people to understand how we can do it. This declaration is the first step to delivering that ambition.”