Every child in care deserves better
We grew up in care. We know what needs to change. Three demands for the 2026 Senedd Elections, shaped by those who lived it.
“What we are asking for is no more than any child has a right to — the right to lead a decent life, as part of a decent society.” Deborah Jones, Chief Executive Officer — Voices From Care Cymru
Why this matters
A system that still fails children
Care experienced children in Wales face outcomes that no society should accept. They are more likely to be restrained, criminalised, and made homeless than their peers — not because of who they are, but because of the system that is supposed to protect them.
The numbers tell the story
Children in care are disproportionately criminalised, face placement instability, and lose support overnight at 18.
Recommendations from the Waterhouse Report remain unimplemented
In 2000, the Lost in Care report documented hundreds of cases of child abuse in Welsh care homes. 25 years later, many of the changes it called for have still not been delivered. Our manifesto picks up where those promises left off.
Manifesto 2026
Three calls for the next Senedd
These manifesto policies have been developed by care experienced children and young people from across Wales, supported by Voices From Care Cymru.
End the use of restraint
Stop routine restraint on children and young people. Promote trauma-informed de-escalation and ensure aftercare, reporting and judicial oversight.
Accountable health & wellbeing
Health Boards must have statutory duties to promote the health of care experienced young people, with named professionals and independent reviews.
Higher standards for independent living
Clear entitlements, no homelessness from leaving care, an essentials guarantee, and championing young people's social relationships.
Upcoming events
Calendar of events
A working calendar of confirmed events, campaign moments and activities currently being planned. Some dates are still being finalised.
VFCC Hustings
VFCC at the Senedd: Post-Election Event
Foster Care Fortnight
Volunteering Day
CASCADE 30th
Volunteers' Week
Litter Pick Picnic
Youth Work Week
Inflatable 5K
Summer Holiday Activity
Scotland Exchange Visit
Proud Event
World Mental Health Day
Halloween Activity
Bonfire Night Activity
Christmas Activity
New Year Activity
Care Day Activity
Choir, Drop-ins and Volunteering Days
Lasting change in the nature and quality of services for children and young people will only be achieved when care experienced children and young people are fully engaged in shaping it.
Voices From Care Cymru — The principle at the heart of everything we do
Our programmes
Supporting young people across Wales
From creative activities for children aged 8 to advocacy in the Senedd, VFCC delivers direct support and systemic change.
Radical Reform Summits
VFCC's flagship events where care experienced young ambassadors directly question Welsh Ministers on their commitments. Over 65 young people participated, and a third summit saw Ministers report back to young people — an unprecedented level of transparency.
65 ambassadors | 3 national summits | Radical Reform Declaration signed May 2023
Sky's the Limit
Creative community-based activities designed specifically for children aged 8–14 in care. Through art, outdoor activities, and peer connection, young people build confidence and resilience in a safe, supportive environment.
Community-based | Creative activities | Building resilience
Peer Support Cafés
Safe spaces for care experienced young people to connect, share experiences, and support each other. Specialist groups for students, care experienced parents, LGBT+ youth, neurodivergent young people, and Welsh speakers.
5 specialist groups | Peer-led | Wales-wide
Prison Peer Support
Pioneering peer support programmes at HMP Berwyn, HMP Cardiff, and HMP Parc. Care experienced prisoners connect through shared experience, and in 2024, a play written and performed by prisoners was attended by Welsh Ministers.
3 prisons engaged | Peer-written drama | Ministerial engagement
Annual Impact 2024–25
The numbers behind the work
Our patron
Michael Sheen
VFCC is proud to have the actor and campaigner Michael Sheen as our patron. His commitment to Welsh communities and social justice strengthens our voice and amplifies the cause of care experienced young people.
Working with
Five Nations One Voice
Latest
News & Updates
Take Action
Make these your priorities too
Every political party should commit to these three changes. Add your voice before May 2026.