WILL WE LISTEN TO CHILDREN?

South Wales Evening Post - 22 November 2006

After reading the original article regarding the move of the children's home to Blaenymaes (Post, November 13), I question whether any consultation had taken place with the looked-after children of Swansea as to where they wish to live and what facilities they would like.

Once again, after reading the follow-up article by Councillor Chris Holley, there is still no mention whatsoever of any views of the children and young people who are directly involved in this situation.

I am not querying whether Blaenymaes or West Cross is the appropriate area for a children's home but simply where would the looked-after children and young people like to live.

Where is the evidence that Swansea Council have adhered to the UN's Convention on the Rights of a Child, which states that a child has the right to be consulted on their views and those views must be respected?

I fear this has not taken place and, once again, the care system appears to be failing to meet even the basic needs of the most vulnerable children in Swansea who deserve to have much more than just their basic needs met.

Many looked-after children have already been failed by the people who should support them the most, which is how they enter the care system.

Unfortunately, many looked-after children continue to be failed by this poor system.

Please begin to not just listen to looked-after children, but also to show evidence that their wishes are acted upon.

A Thomas, Bryn Street, Brynhyfryd, Swansea