History of a child's voice

Development Process of the “A Child’s Voice” Programme

By The Life Matters

1. Needs Assessment and Research

The Life Matters Charity began in 2019 as an idea, by 2021 it was awarded registered by The Charity Commission.

The idea to develop of “A Child’s Voice” self-healing programme for children and undertook a comprehensive needs and assessments so to understand the barriers children face in having their voices heard in care, education, and community systems. This phase included:

Data Analysis: Reviewing local authority reports, safeguarding policy, reviews, and Ofsted data.
Stakeholder Consultations: Engaging with social workers, educators, child advocates, and carers to identify service gaps.
Lived Experience Input: Conducting anonymous surveys and interviews with children and young people (ages 7–17) to capture direct experiences.
Reviewing the existing clinical research and social work practices data

2. Co-Production with Young People

Central to the programme’s design is the principle of co-production. The Life Matters held a series of youth-led design workshops, ensuring the programme:

Reflects the language, values, and concerns of children.
Builds practical tools to help children express themselves safely and confidently..
Includes activities and learning formats that are age-appropriate and inclusive.

3. Programme Design and Pilot

Based on the findings, The Life Matters created a draft curriculum and delivery framework, including:

Interactive Workshops (e.g., understanding rights, safe expression, communicating with adults)
Creative Expression Modules (e.g., spoken word, visual storytelling, theatre)
Feedback Loops to ensure ongoing evaluation and refinement.

A small-scale pilot was launched in primary schools, secondary schools and one youth setting, over 2 years. Evaluation metrics included:

Pre- and post-programme surveys.
Professional observations.
Direct feedback from children and professionals.

4. Professional Input and Safeguarding Assurance

To ensure quality and compliance:

A multi-agency approach was implemented to ensure comprehensive support and guidance from key professionals, including safeguarding leads, teachers, social workers, Cafcass representatives, and trauma specialists. This collaborative framework facilitated the integration of expert opinions and insights into the programme, ensuring that professional perspectives were consistently embedded in the planning, delivery, and evaluation stages. By drawing on the knowledge and expertise of these diverse professionals, the programme was able to address the complex needs of individuals, providing a holistic and well-rounded support structure.
All training materials were meticulously aligned with the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE) guidance and the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This alignment ensured that the content was in full compliance with the latest safeguarding standards and legal frameworks, reinforcing the commitment to promoting child protection, well-being, and educational inclusivity. By adhering to these established guidelines, the materials provided a robust foundation for safeguarding children, supporting their educational needs, and respecting their fundamental rights in every aspect of the programme.
Training modules for facilitators were carefully developed, with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed practice, incorporating current clinical research, social work methodologies, and educational strategies that promote inclusivity. These modules were designed to equip facilitators with the necessary knowledge and skills to support diverse individuals effectively, ensuring a compassionate and evidence-based approach. By integrating these key areas of expertise, the training ensures that facilitators are well-prepared to engage with participants in a manner that is both empathetic and informed by best practices in the field

5. Evaluation Framework and Impact Measurement

The Life Matters embedded an evidence-based evaluation strategy that includes:

Outcome tracking (e.g., improvements in self-expression, confidence, and help-seeking behaviour).
Longitudinal impact review across 3, 6, and 12-month intervals post-programme.
A mixed-methods approach using qualitative stories of change alongside quantitative data.

6. Scalability and Community Integration

Following positive pilot results, the A CHILDS VOICE was born in 2024 as a 10-week workbook programme that has refined for wider implementation across schools, care services, and youth organisations. A flexible delivery model was developed to suit various settings and ensure:

Cultural sensitivity and adaptability.
Partnerships with local authorities and third-sector agencies.
Sustainable delivery through training local practitioners.

Conclusion

The development of “A Child’s Voice” by The Life Matters represents a child-led, evidence-informed, and professionally grounded initiative. The programme not only empowers children to express themselves but strengthens the capacity of adults and systems to listen to their voice and act. With the support of funding, Life Matters seeks to expand this vital work and ensure every child is heard, valued, and safe.

Clear evidence from the “A Child’s Voice”® workbook programme has demonstrated that participating children show, before or upon completion a significant reduction in self-harming behaviours and suicidal thoughts or attempts.

Due to the sensitive nature of our work we do not share historic detailed case studies undertaken in the development of the “A Child’s Voice” programme on our website, as the content may be distressing. However, if you would like further insight into the impact of our work, please contact the charity directly. We can provide anonymised case studies upon request, where appropriate.

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