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Children in Care Council & Care Leaver Forum  (CICC) constitution

Policy Owner: Debbie Gates, Participation and Inclusion Officer
Effective Date: September 2026
Review Date: September 2027
Version: 1.0

Purpose

The Children in Care Council (CICC) gives children and young people in care the opportunity to share their views, influence decisions, and help improve services across Halton.

The CICC is led by Debbie Gates, Participation and Inclusion Officer, who supports members to ensure their voices are heard and acted upon.

 

Who Can Join?

The CICC is open to children and young people looked after by Halton Borough Council aged 9 to 18 years.

18 to 25 years for the Care Leaver Forum

The CICC & CLF are made up of two groups:

  • Children in Care Council- Ages 9 to 18
  • Care Leaver Forum - Ages 18 to 25

Meetings

  • Meetings take place every six weeks.
  • Meetings provide a safe and supportive space to share views and ideas.
  • Refreshments are provided.
  • Transport support can be arranged where required.
  • Meetings may include consultations, activities, projects, and opportunities to meet senior leaders and decision-makers.

 

What We Do

Members help to:

  • Improve services for children and young people in care.
  • Share feedback and ideas.
  • Influence decisions that affect children in care.
  • Take part in events, activities and consultations.
  • Represent the views of other children and young people in care.

 

Rewards and Recognition

CICC & CLF members are recognised for their time and commitment through:

  • Attendance incentives.
  • Participation rewards.
  • Opportunities to attend additional activities, events and projects.

 

Expectations

All members are expected to:

  • Treat others with respect.
  • Listen to different views and opinions.
  • Be welcoming and inclusive.
  • Use appropriate language and behaviour.
  • Help maintain a safe environment for everyone.
  • No inappropriate use of social media
  • No photo’s or video recordings to be taken by members.

Bullying, discrimination, or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated.

 

Our Commitment

We are committed to ensuring that children and young people in care have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect them. The Children in Care Council and Care Leaver Forum provides opportunities to make friends, build confidence, develop new skills, and create positive change for children and young people in care across Halton.