The Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, is launching a once-in-a-generation review of children’s lives.

It’s called ‘The Childhood Commission’ and it will identify the barriers preventing children reaching their full potential and propose policy solutions to address them.

At its heart is ‘The Big Ask’ – the largest ever consultation held with children and we are asking our students to participate in this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

In this survey the Children’s Commissioner is asking children and young people what they think is important for their future and what is holding young people back. The Children’s Commissioner will use what children and young people tell her to show the Government what they think and what they need to live happier lives.

It’s an exciting opportunity to help us think big and it’s a chance for every child in England to have their voice heard.

Find out more: https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/about-us/the-childrens-commissioner-for-england/

This academic year, Ajay and I started working on a social action project together with NCS and the Wolves Foundation. Our goal was to think of, and execute, a project that would benefit members of the community in Wolverhampton. 

After lots of thought and discussion, we decided to try to help the vulnerable and marginalised members of our society. Our goal was set. We would  provide the homeless people of Wolverhampton with essential items to see them through winter. These items would include: hats, gloves, scarves and socks, as well as necessities such as deodorant, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes and food items. 

We collected donations from our own school staff as well as from the staff at Wombourne High. Monetary donations were also made by our sixth form as well as a local Sainsbury’s, and a facebook campaign in our local village was a huge success. We were overwhelmed by people’s kindness and generosity. Overall, over 250 items were collected which we donated to the Good Shepherd’s Homeless Shelter on the 21st of December. We hope that, in the future, we can undertake further projects and campaigns to raise awareness and support more people in our local community.

By Molly Kerrin