‘Young People Big Voice’: reflections on the participation of children and young people in a university setting

The purpose of this paper is to share critical insights into the strengths and challenges of progressing child and youth participation in a university-based research context, drawing on our experience of establishing and facilitating a consultative group, Young People Big Voice (YPBV), as part of the work of the Centre for Children and Young People (CCYP) at Southern Cross University. The YPBV has played an integral role in the centre’s activities over the past four years. The paper will synthesise the key issues involved in attempting to convene, engage, support and learn from children and young people as they collaborate on the research, education and advocacy activities of the centre.