I want to be famous for making change
Through her work with Voices from Care Cymru, the Welsh Government and Youth Work Wales, Tilley is using her own experience of care to ensure that all children and young people in care have their views and opinions listened to and acted upon. Currently studying for a degree in youth work and social education, here Tilley shares some of her thoughts on why children’s rights are so important…
Article 12 – the right to express your views and have them taken seriously – is my number one children’s right! When I was in care, I did shout loudly so I got heard, but I don’t feel that I was really listened to. For example, when I went to boarding school, no one talked to me about whether I wanted to go. If I knew then what I know now I could have sat in the meetings and quoted Article 12 instead of running my mouth off!
I think the reason some local authorities don’t let children know their rights is that they think they might use that
knowledge against them. But if you want young people to be able to voice their views and opinions in an adult way then you need to act in their best interest. I would say to a young person coming into care, fight for everything you believe in.
If you believe in something, don’t stop.
The rights of children must be promoted. The UNCRC needs to be everywhere. It’s important that young people realise they can use the rights for their power.
When children come into care, they should get a package which explains how to participate in their care and tells them about their rights in the UNCRC. There should be workshops about their rights and young people should be encouraged to get involved in their community.
I have huge dreams and won’t give up until I get there. I want to get my degree and be a community youth worker, supporting young people. I don’t want to be popstar famous, but I do want to be famous for making change, building community and showing love and passion to everyone. I needed someone like that – everyone needs someone like that.
I would say to every adult involved in a young person’s life: every child should have the opportunity to be listened to and understood and helped to develop to their full potential. You need to communicate with young people. Engage with them and understand them. Then if a young person can’t have what they are asking for, you can explain to them why that’s the case and make decisions with the young person and not just about them.
You can keep up with what Tilley is currently working on by visiting her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BLoudBProud
Resilience – a poem by Tilley
It came without recognition and built a wall around my heart
Keeping out the evil energies , it sat with me in the dark
It has pulled me through the nightmares and gave me my ultimate spark
Strength like a warrior they said
But you see , that is not even the start
People question how it’s possible , to build resilience in our youth
But you see that’s what made me
This power we can use
So teach others around you , that life is pretty tough
But with a bit of resilience
It’s bound to level up.
(Tilley, 2023)
