ABSTRACT
At the beginning of the 2000’s there was little evidence of outcomes from the participation of disabled children and young people in decision-making within public services. In the 15 years that have followed, advances have been made in participatory research and in outcome-led research. This paper, written with young people, will present evidence of the outcomes from a research project led entirely by a group of disabled young people. We are Aidan, Jessica and Jamie and we are part of the eXtreme group which is supported by Investing in Children (a children’s human rights project based in the North East of England). The eXtreme group consists of 50 young people aged 12-19 who get involved in decision-making to improve the lives of disabled people. Investing in Children promotes children and young people’s rights. Over the past year we have made children’s voices heard, by getting them involved in decision-making. One of the topics we have looked at is Transitions, and we are putting together a DVD based on people’s experiences, such as young people moving from schools into colleges or universities or into adult services. Transitions processes start at primary school right through to applying for a job. In every step of the way, young people with disabilities have different experiences through Transitions. This research has been carried out entirely by young people who are now working with local services to make improvements.
