Child Participation (Voice of the Child)

A Voice of the Child (Child Participation) Assessment is a specialised evaluation that focuses on understanding and incorporating a child's views, feelings, and preferences into decision-making processes that affect their life. This assessment involves engaging with the child in a manner appropriate to their age, developmental stage, and individual circumstances to gather their perspectives on issues such as living arrangements, parental contact, and other significant matters. The aim is to ensure that the child's voice is heard and considered, contributing to decisions that are in their best interests. By actively involving the child, the assessment helps to promote their sense of agency, well-being, and inclusion in decisions that impact their future.

Child Participation assessments focus on capturing the views and wishes of the child, rather than making recommendations for care and contact. This assessment is utilised primarily in mediation processes and non-high conflict matters to support caregivers in their decision-making.

Example of a Child Participation Process includes:

Individual interviews with the caregiver(s).
Interview and assessment of the child(ren) to understand their views and wishes.
Joint feedback session with the parties, mediator, or legal representatives.
Report (provided only if requested by both parties).