There are different ways you can get your views heard!
Skittlz is your Children in LBBD Care Council - it is a group of children and young people who are in our care.
Skittlz was the name that was thought up by our Skittlz members when it was first formed.
They decided on the name because their motto is, ‘we may get knocked down, but we will brush ourselves off and get straight back up’ - just like bowling Skittlz …….. you can never keep a good thing down!
There is no age limit or any other eligibility criteria ….. all we ask is that you are passionate and committed to changing the lives and experiences of children in our care for the better.
We meet once a month for two hours to discuss the issues that matter to you!
And it doesn’t end there …. we meet with senior management to let them know our thoughts, feelings and idea’s on how we can improve services and practice.
The group has worked tirelessly to gain the views of other children and young people in our care; to act as a voice for these children; to improve the lives and experiences of children in the care of Barking and Dagenham.
Skittlz have volunteered their time to support and campaign for their peers for over 4 years - their commitment, achievements and enthusiasm is exemplary and inspiring.
Skittlz attitude is to ‘never give up’, for many, this may appear to be a simple phrase, but to them it truly holds so much heart, warmth and dedication.
All the members have had to go through their own journeys of discovery, which at times have been upsetting, confusing and in their words ‘when we understand what happens to us, or why something is happening, even if we don’t like the decision - it helps us to grow, and lessens the anger and upset that we cannot live with our families’ - this statement is carried close to their heart, when communicating with other children in our care and professionals - their passion always shows.
We get to attend events up and down the country, working with the government to advise and share our experiences. We also have fun days out, like go-karting, and theatre!
We are always looking for new members, and are always interested in what you have to say. If you are interested in becoming a member of Skittlz, please contact Sally or Ann.
Even if you live far away, you can still be a Skittlz member!
We can contact you by email, phone and in time via webcam!
Don’t delay, contact Sally or Ann.
The Participation Team is made up of two youth workers who are responsible for running youth club sessions for children and young people. We have two groups; 5-13 years and 14-18 years which includes care leavers. The groups meet once a month at the Vibe Youth Centre. We have lots of exciting workshops and activities planned including sports, drama, music and much more.
If you would like to be a part of the group please call, text, WhatsApp or e-mail us using the details below.
Sally Allen-Clarke
Participation Officer
Vibe Youth Centre
195-211 Becontree Avenue
Dagenham
RM8 2UT
Phone: 020 8227 3297
Mobile: 07971 542684
E-Mail: Sally.Allen-Clarke@lbbd.gov.uk
Ann McDonnell
Participation Officer
Vibe Youth Centre
195-211 Becontree Avenue
Dagenham
RM8 2UT
Phone: 020 8227 3298
Mobile: 07971 542684
E-Mail: annm.mcdonnell@lbbd.gov.uk
Occasionally there are meetings that happen and professionals want to meet with young people to ask them their views and opinions on different matters.
We will update you on this page of any future meetings that you can attend.
There is a meeting that happens every two months were children and young people in our care meet with social workers and IRO’s and other social care staff to discuss how services can be improved.
We will upload the discussions here so you can see what’s been spoken about.
If you would like to attend or contribute to this meeting, please contact our Children’s Rights Officer.
You are entitled to view your case files when you are 18.
Our Children’s Rights Officer can support you to do this.
If you would like to view your case files you can contact either your social worker or our Children’s Rights Officer.
There are a number of ways that you can complain/compliment if you are not happy or happy about something or a service that you receive from social services.
You can call or email the Complaints and Information Manager:
Veronica Finn
Complaints and Information Officer
Feedback Team
Phone: 020 8227 2405
Email: veronica.finn@lbbd.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can contact our Children’s Rights Officer, Tracey Clarke, who can support you with a complaint or compliment.
Additionally you can contact Coram who will refer and advise.
If you would like to know more about your rights or would like a copy of the Sorted and Supported booklet for young people, give us a call on our Freephone number 0808 800 5792 and speak with the Helpline advocate.
If you need advice, you can email mcpadvice@coramclc.org.uk and we will respond to your email as soon as we can. This service provides one-off advice; we cannot take on cases.
Get your Voice heard!
Feel like no one is listening?
Find it hard to speak up for yourself?
Advocates can help you have your say!
Advocates can help you:
If you would like an advocate to support you please contact our Children’s Rights Officer.
Tracey Clarke
Children’s Rights Officer
The Vibe, 195-211 Becontree Avenue
Dagenham
RM8 2UT
Mob: 07968 511 822
Email: tracey.clarke@lbbd.gov.uk
It's really important that your views are heard. We have a range of ways you can do this and you can choose the one you like best! You also have a say on who hears or sees your views.
Tell your social worker how you want your voice to be heard and who you want to hear what you have to say.
We look forward to hearing from you!