World Care Day, the world’s biggest celebration of children who grow up in out-of-home care was celebrated on 16 February.  

While it’s an annual celebration marked with events for children and carers around the country, it’s also a crucial opportunity to hear from young people about their journey of care and what needs to happen so that young people in out-of-home care can reach their full potential.   

Now in its’ eighth year, the World Care Day initiative is underpinned by a collective of nine global voices of care organisations from across the world, including EPIC in Ireland, VOYPIC in Northern Ireland, Who Cares? Scotland, and Become in the UK, Voices from Care in Wales, Fepa in Spain, Fice in Croatia, VOYCE in New Zealand and CREATE in Australia — all working together to promote conversations about young people defying the odds and succeeding in their own right. 

“Their insights and expertise are invaluable, and many young people have a drive to make the journey of care better for others,” said Emma Davies, CREATE Foundation Deputy CEO. 

Davies highlighted that young people with a care experience are highly engaged and have strong views on where the care system needs to improve.  

Related: CREATE Foundation calls on QLD to cease locking up children in adult watch houses

“We need to ensure all governments are listening to what young people have to say about strengthening care systems in Australia.” 

Davies added that many young people highlighted they key issues in the care system. 

From the importance of sibling connection to challenges with the transition to adulthood when leaving care.  

“It’s really important for governments and organisations to engage meaningfully with children and young people to hear about their experiences and aspirations,” added Davies.  

Davies added that focusing on what young people tell us about their journey of care and how the system needs to change. 

“We can support children and young people in out-of-home care to reach their full potential,” concluded Davies.  

For more on Child Protection, check out Third Sector’s 7th National Child Protection Forum.