Promoting the Participation of Seldom Heard Young People: A Review of the Literature on Best Practice Principles

The purpose of this research was to review national and international literature on the participation of seldom heard young people and to identify best practice principles in the field. Key objectives were: to provide a detailed account of what is meant by seldom heard children and young people; to examine the core aspects of participation as well as the barriers and challenges to participation for seldom heard children and young people; to identify approaches which can improve the inclusion of seldom heard children and young people in decision-making that affects their lives. The project aimed to integrate the experiences of young people who come into contact with the health, education, social care and/or justice system in Ireland and also the experiences of seldom heard young people who exist outside formalised systems. The outcome will inform policymakers, practitioners, and others in statutory, community, and voluntary sectors who wish to engage with young people whose voices are seldom heard.