We run lots of participation groups. Sometimes they're face to face and sometimes they're virtual. Our participation groups give you the chance to have your voice heard on the things that matter to you, but also to have fun and meet others who may be in a similar situation.
Although the groups focus on tackling issues in Surrey, they're also a lot of fun (and there is very often pizza!).
Whatever your experiences, there's bound to be a group for you.
Our current participation groups
Below you'll find a list of all the ones we're running now – we'd love to see you at one!
If you'd like to come along all you need do is express and interest using the form below.
Expression of interest to join a group form
Please note when you join a participation group will need to complete a health and safety form.
Parent/Carer/Guardian Consent Form for under 18's
Care Council Juniors
This is for 8 to 13-year-olds who are in care, fostering or living under special arrangements. The focus of this group is on fun! There are lots of brilliant activities, fun days out, and you'll get to meet other young people in similar situations.
"I love Care Council Juniors, I wish it happened everyday".
Find out more about being in care in Surrey
Care Council
Like Care Council Juniors, this is for those in care, fostering or under special arrangements, but the age range for this group is 13 to 17 years. You'll get to do loads of great activities, enjoy days out, and also talk about the things that you want to change in the care system. It's a brilliant way to meet other people in similar situations.
"Care Council was good as always, and I want everyone to know they are not alone."
Find out more about being in care in Surrey
Care Leavers' Forum
The Care Leavers' Forum is for those over 18 who have left the care system. If you want to improve the experiences of other care leavers and those still in care by sharing your views, then this is the place for you! It's a really sociable and supportive group who meet regularly and share tips and experiences.
Here is what young people have said about attending the group:
- "The session was really good. I thought I would be nervous, but my confidence has grown and will continue to grow the more I attend".
- "Everyone was really friendly and was open with their experiences which helped me to open up".
- "The group has pushed me to have conversations with people in the same position - it's refreshing".
Find out more about what's available to care leavers in Surrey
Surrey Youth Cabinet
The Surrey Youth Cabinet are a group of young people, aged 11 to 19 (or up to 25 if you have additional needs or a disability). We work together with the Surrey Young Mayor to make things better in our local communities and across the country. We represent the voices of young people who live or go to school in Surrey. We do this by working on projects that are important to young people, just like you! Do you want to make a difference for you and other young people in your town? If so, get in touch with us!
The more young people, the louder the call for change!
Find out more about Surrey Youth Cabinet
ATLAS
ATLAS is a participation group for children and young people aged 10 to 25 who have additional needs and disabilities in Surrey. ATLAS was named by the members themselves and stands for: Accept, Teach, Listen, Access, Support! This is a very passionate and supportive group, and we'd love to see you there!
Consulting Youth Advisors (CYA)
The Consulting Youth Advisors is a group of young people aged 14 to 25 who want to be part of a supportive group, where you can meet new friends with similar experiences and interests to you. We are also really passionate about improving emotional wellbeing and mental health services. If you would like to get involved, we want to hear from you!
Find out more about Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health participation
Consulting Youth Advisors Juniors (CYA Juniors)
The Consulting Youth Advisors Juniors is for young people aged 8 to 13. We like to meet new people, make new friends and have lots of fun! We are a super friendly and like to share our views about emotional wellbeing and mental health services, to make them better for everyone! We'd love you to join us, so please get in touch!
