Around 100 young people from schools and youth organisations visited New County Hall on Friday for Cornwall’s first children’s rights celebration event.
Called ‘Article 12 Celebration Day’, it embraced Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that every child has the right to have their views considered and taken seriously.
They took part in a range of activities from screen printing and graphic design to clay sculpting and poetry, all with a focus on children’s rights. One group even penned a foot-tappingly catchy song called ‘Listen Up’ about the kind of world they want to live in.
During the day there were video-link appearances from Kathy Allan, from UNICEF’s Rights Respecting Schools Award, and children’s rights guru Professor Laura Lundy, who told Cornwall’s young people: “Don’t give up! Keep at it and you’ll see continuing change.”
The event also included a performance of Horrible Histories song Work Terrible Work by Cornwall Youth Council and CD Kids Theatre Company. Painting a picture of children’s lives in Victorian times, it saw Council Leader Leigh Frost have his pockets picked as the children danced through the council chamber.
Last on the day’s agenda was this year’s Annual Conversation, which gives children and young people the opportunity to share their views and ideas with decision-makers at the council.
The first Annual Conversation took place in 2021, following on from significant passion and engagement shown by children and young people for the G7 which came to Cornwall in June 2021.
This year’s conversation topics with key council officers and councillors were: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND); outdoor spaces; transport; mental health support; and period dignity. All are aligned to Cornwall Youth Council’s manifesto.
Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet member for children, families and schools, said:
“It’s been such a joy to be here and to really listen to what these young people have to say, not just their concerns and worries but also their hopes and dreams for the future.
“Every child should feel part of Cornwall’s story, valued and included. That’s why we’re listening to children and young people and making sure their voices shape the way we do things. They are not the leaders of tomorrow, they are the leaders of today.”
She added: “I am incredibly proud of everyone who took part and would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to Hannah and the Children’s Rights team, and also Cornwall Youth Council, for putting on such a fabulous event. It’s been a huge success.”
Cllr Leigh Frost, Leader of Cornwall Council, said:
“A huge ‘thank you’ from me to everyone who organised and took part in the Article 12 Celebration Day and Annual Conversation. The energy and passion on display were incredible to see.
“Young people make up one in five residents here in Cornwall so events like this are really important to ensure their voices are heard so we can meet their needs and create a better future for them.”
For more information visit the children's rights pages on the council's website.
Press release issued on July 2, 2025.