What is the NYAS Campaigns Youth Advisory Group?
NYAS’ Campaigns Advisory Group (CAG) was established in 2019, with the objective of making sure the voices and lived experiences of care-experienced young people are heard, represented, and empowered in NYAS’ research and campaigning work.
The group is made up of care leavers aged 18-25 years from across England and Wales, who all have unique and different experiences of the care system. Membership of the group is voluntary, and the group meets virtually once a month. Every meeting is guided by the views and interests of members and NYAS’ campaigning work.
Guest speakers are invited to meet with the group each month. In the past, we’ve hosted Ofsted, the Welsh Government, civil servants, and other children’s charities. Meetings are also a chance for members to catch up.
What Does NYAS' Campaigns Advisory Group Do?
Campaign Advisors use their knowledge and experience of the care system to help us influence politicians and decision makers by:
- Contributing to NYAS’ responses to government consultations
- Participating in NYAS research focus groups
- Meeting with key governmental decision-makers
- Representing NYAS at awards ceremonies and events
- Helping with recruitment of NYAS staff
- Speaking to national media broadcasters
- Visiting UK and Welsh Parliaments
How Can I Get Involved in the Campaigns Advisory Group?
All members of our Campaigns Advisory Group must be aged 18-25, and it is essential that they have experience of life in care. We ask that members commit to being available at least 5-10 days every year, though this is flexible.
Applicants should also be passionate about making a positive change to national and local policies related to life in care for children and young people. They also need to believe in the vision, mission and values of NYAS.
You can apply to be a member of the advisory group all year round. All we do is ask you to answer a few questions and then meet with you to discuss your suitability for the role.
To find out how you can become a member, contact NYAS’ Policy team at policy@nyas.net.
Does the Campaigns Advisory Group consult on every NYAS campaign?
Our group of care-experienced young people generally contribute to every campaign that NYAS runs. At times, campaigns may be developed in conjunction with other care-experienced young people at NYAS, which may mean that the youth voice has already been considered elsewhere.
The important thing for NYAS is to make sure that our campaigns are always informed by the voices and opinions of care-experienced young people.
“When I sat on a NYAS interview panel, I was treated fairly, like anyone else who would be conducting a job interview. My thoughts and opinions were considered, and I felt like I was a real part of the process.”
Victoria*, Campaigns Advisory Group Member
“Everything that I have suggested for the group has always been listened to by NYAS. It’s great to be part of this group.”
Amir*, Campaigns Advisory Group Member
“The best of the Campaigns Advisory Group is making new friends and forming a bond with people who I really care about.”
Kamil*, Campaigns Advisory Group Member
Got More Questions?
If you have further questions about the Campaigns Advisory Group, just get in touch.
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