Youth Voice Toolkit
The Youth Voice Toolkit aims to support a genuine approach to youth voice and consultation activities across schools and communities. The toolkit contains implementation guidance, the Empowering Youth Voice Resource Pack and support materials for practitioners and leaders. It has been developed by Education Scotland CLD officers and informed by local and regional models across the country. The toolkit can be used within individual school and community settings, and can also be used to develop a broader approach to youth voice across organisations and local authorities.
Evidence tells us that children and young people often feel frustrated during consultation processes:
'Despite these positive developments, children continue to express frustration that their views are not listened to or taken seriously by decision makers. Key issues for children include tokenistic approaches, a lack of feedback loop, failure to include seldom heard groups – especially younger children, difficulties in accessing independent advocacy, and a sense that participation can sometimes feel forced/pressured rather than voluntary.'
Together Scotland, State of Children’s Rights Report, 2023
The toolkit aims to address these concerns by developing an approach to youth voice based on the principles of peer research, inclusion, democracy and equality. It does that through key elements including:
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Creating and upholding a Youth Voice Charter, to outline the principles that all adults should follow when consulting with children and young people.
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Embedding the Empowering Youth Voice Resource pack within a youth voice structure. The Empowering Youth Voices Resource is based on a peer research approach and can be used to undertake research on any theme.
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Taking action and connecting with other practitioners where possible, to share practice and develop a local or regional approach.
It is important for Education Scotland to gather feedback and measure impact of the toolkit, to help inform future improvements and share effective practice. We kindly ask colleagues who have are taking forward, or have completed implementation, to support Education Scotland in this process by sharing your experience. You can also email your feedback to us.
Implementation guidance
Guidance for schools, community groups, organisations and local authorities to effectively implement the Youth Voice Toolkit.
Empowering Youth Voices resource pack
Downloadable resource pack to support practitioners to embed a peer-research approach within youth voice structures.
Support materials
Additional information and resources to support toolkit use including presentations, guides, a checklist, FAQ and additional reading & resources.