World Children’s Day takes place every year on 20 November. As with previous years, the CFC Network used the day as an opportunity to promote and celebrate children’s rights in their cities and communities. This year, highlights included:
Redbridge hosted events and activities throughout the entire week, encouraging colleagues from the council and their partners to think about how best to embed a child rights-based approach in their work and across their services. Examples included the Eco Skills Festival, delivered by the council’s Neighbourhood Team, which was attended by Mete Coban MBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, Cllr Blackman and Cllr Rai, the Leader of the Council, along with 63 children from 11 different schools across the borough.
Nottingham used the day to launch their Child Friendly Nottingham children and young people’s survey – an important part of their CFC journey. The event at Nottingham’s Council House created fun and interactive activities and the theme was ‘Your Voice Matters – Get It Heard’. Children took part in website design, voting exercises, designing their own Nottingham children’s magazine, and working with sports clubs. The event highlighted the importance of children and young people getting opportunities to be heard and have their views and experiences taken seriously.
Liverpool facilitated a special session of the School’s Parliament iniative, a space where children and young people can share their ideas, hold the council accountable, and influence what happens in their city. In this session, children delivered presentations about what their rights mean to them, emphasizing important issues like having the freedom to express themselves and live freely from discrimination. Young people also took part in a ‘takeover’ of the council’s social media channels, providing a platform for children to share their perspectives and priorities.
Sandwell organised a whole host of activities for children and young people that celebrated both World Children’s Day and UK Parliament Week, which runs from 18 – 24 November. The week-long activities encouraged young people to learn more about careers in local government and how the council allocates and manages its budget. Young people were encouraged to explore democratic values and share ideas to help build a thriving community in Sandwell. The council also hosted a special youth session in the Council Chamber, where young participants had the chance to step into the shoes of decision-makers, debate local issues and present innovative ideas for the community’s growth and wellbeing. Pupils met with West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes to give their suggestions on how to improve their local area and influence the decisions that affect them. Lilly, aged 11, said: "I learned so much about how decisions are made and how we can get involved. It’s amazing to know that our ideas can make a difference."
Did your city or community celebrate World Children’s Day? Let us know for a chance to be featured in a round-up from UNICEF’s global Child Friendly Cites Initiative! Email cfc@unicef.org.uk
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