Children’s views to drive a better future for their community

Children living in one of Cardiff's most diverse neighbourhoods are to have a say in how it could be improved. The project is led by academics at Cardiff University and aims to improve the wellbeing of children and young people living in Grangetown - one of the communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. A series of workshops is planned with children (aged eight-12) and young people (aged 12-17) in schools and in Grange Pavilion. Activities include an assessment of the local neighbourhood through the eyes of young people as well as the development of a recovery plan which meets the needs of children living there. Project lead Dr Matluba Khan, based at the School of Geography and Planning, said: "The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including social distancing measures, school closures and prohibition on outdoor activities, has further highlighted social and spatial inequalities, particularly for children and young people. Many have had limited access to outdoor spaces and resources such as the internet. "The project, which also ties into the University's civic mission, aims to improve the wellbeing of children and young people in Grangetown, empowering them to create a plan on how their community can recover and change for the better.