have your say; WSCC survey for care experienced young people

If you've been in care or recently left care in West Sussex, this is your chance to make a real difference.

West Sussex County Council is inviting children and young people who are currently in care, as well as care leavers, to take part in a new survey about their experiences. The aim is simple: to understand what's working well, what could be improved, and how services can better support young people in the future.

why your voice matters

No one understands the care system better than the young people who have experienced it themselves.

Whether you've had a positive experience, faced challenges, or want to share ideas for change, your feedback can help shape future support for other care-experienced young people across West Sussex. The survey is designed to give you a safe space to share your thoughts, feelings and experiences, and there are no right or wrong answers.

Every response helps decision-makers understand what life is really like for children in care and care leavers today.

what is the survey about?

The survey asks children and young people in care, along with care leavers, to share their views on the support they receive and their experiences of care. The information collected will help identify areas that are working well and areas where improvements may be needed.

By taking part, you're helping ensure that future services are shaped by the people who use them most.

is my information protected?

Yes. According to the survey information, responses will be handled in line with data protection laws, including the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR requirements. The information collected will be used to help improve services and will be stored securely.

need support to take part?

If completing the survey online is difficult, support is available through local West Sussex libraries. Alternative formats can also be requested from the council's Voice and Participation team.

how to get involved

The survey is open from 5 October 2026 until 27th November 2026 and is available online through the Your Voice West Sussex platform.

If you're eligible, taking a few minutes to complete the survey could help improve services for other young people in care, both now and in the years ahead.

take the survey here: https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/children-in-care-and-care-leavers-survey

If reading this has brought up any concerns or difficult feelings, please visit The Youth Media's support & signposting page for information about where to find help and advice.