What you’ve told us you’d like for all children in Gloucestershire

We recognise that our county does not look the same and is not experienced in the same way by all.

Reference has already been made to those facing disadvantage but equally, the contrast between urban and rural parts of the county, as well as differences between communities who share interests, those with protected characteristics (such as sexual orientation or religion), and how these factors connect and cross over, all impacts how our county is experienced and delivered for children and young people.

How is it, for example, to be a newly arrived family in Cirencester, as compared to the same family arriving in Gloucester City? Are they able to access high quality health, education, social care and community support, and how do they find out about it in the first place?

We have brought together the views of parents, children and young people through listening events hosted by partners, including Healthwatch, Future Me and the Parent Carer Forum, and by research agencies such as ICE Creates and Shared Intelligence. We’ve summarised these key messages:

More opportunities to engage with nature and enjoy our surroundings green spaces
Affordable childcare
Recording systems that enable timely and swift data sharing and referrals between services
Feeling listened to, taken seriously and respected by professionals, such as teachers and health professionals
Professionals use language that can easily be understood by young people
Easier processes and clearer communication to help with Education Health and Care Needs Assessments and their outcome
Help to find work-experience and local employment opportunities, including more ‘modern’ career options (such as social media)
Flexibility and understanding across services so young people can manage competing needs of health, education and care appointments
More early intervention to stop needs increasing
Better promotion of services that are available in their own local area and involve young people in the design and creation so it appeals to them

Easier ways to contact services and be referred, shorter waiting times and tailored support while waiting and on next steps. "Waiting lists are long... I have been seeking support for at least 4 years... I am struggling to find the energy to fight all the time." - Parent Help with transitions from early years to primary, primary to secondary and then into further education, training and employment, especially those with SEND and asylum seeking children. "Feel as though we've hit a brick wall as no other services offered/continued/involved. Very concerned about transition to adulthood which isn't far away." - Parent Never experiencing prejudice, racism or discrimination from services which are there to help. "There is a bias where a black woman is seen as strong and if you speak up or get upset you are perceived as this angry black woman, but you're just supporting your child." - Parent

Sufficient and inclusive education and childcare places that support children with additional need effectively, including children with SEND. "We are struggling with home educating our child, but are not yet able to find a school that is suitable." - Parent Feeling safe when out and about from anti-social behaviour, serious violence and around busy roads. "Don't feel safe - kids hanging outside shops and there have been weapons in area. Don't feel safe to go to the park." - Child, aged 9 Opportunities to socialise and make friends in a safe and welcoming environment outside school and be active in their community. "More hubs for youngsters and then outreach to get the information out there digitally (Instagram and TikTok)." - Parent