Released 14 November 2022

Note: In 2024 the work of the Child Unit was moved from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) to a work programme within the Ministry of Social Development. The Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy webpages have been archived by National Library. Links were updated in this record on 6/6/2024. External links from archived pages may no longer work. Please contact us if you are unable to find any items of interest.


These guidelines are designed to support people in the public sector as they seek to hear and empower the views and voices of children and young people. It aims to ensure this is done in a way that works for children and young people, and that their insights and perspectives are genuinely used to influence policy development, programmes, services and organisation. It may also be a useful resource for those outside of government, who are seeking to engage with children and young people.

Along with this guidance, we encourage you to use the resources highlighted throughout the guidance. We also encourage you to talk with organisations who are already involving young people in decision-making and with young people themselves about the methods of participation that work for them.

The Child Impact Assessment Tool (CIAT) is also a useful tool for government and non-government organisations and service providers to ensure they are considering the rights of children and young people in their work. The CIAT will help agencies and organisations consider the potential current and future impacts on children of any policy or legislation proposals being developed. It encourages drafters or proposers to consider the rights of children and young people at an early stage, including by actively seeking the views of children on decisions being made, and considering ways to mitigate any impacts on children or young people. (From the website). Record #7958