More than 13,300 children and young people took part in a survey asking them to share their feelings and experiences on a range of issues that impact their lives.
Called the Right On Survey, it provides a valuable insight into the health, wellbeing, ambitions and concerns of young people across communities in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Data from the survey helps the council, education settings and other organisations to strengthen current work and shape future services and strategies.
All schools were invited to take part last year, as well as home-schooled (EHE) children and other children and young people not attending school.
Reports capturing the findings of the 2025 survey are now available to view here on the Children’s Rights pages on the council’s website.
Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said:
“It is absolutely vital that we hear directly from children and young people across Cornwall so we truly understand their experiences, challenges, concerns and ambitions. I’m delighted that so many took part in the survey this year, giving us such a strong and representative picture.
“But this isn’t just about listening. It's about what we do next. The real value of this data is that is helps us, and our partners, take informed action and make better decisions so we can improve services and support for children and young people, helping them make their futures as bright as possible.”
The previous survey in 2023 was completed by more than 8,200 young people and the information gathered has influenced the likes of the new Chat Health service, Public Health smoking and vaping campaigns, Safer Cornwall planning, and public transport initiatives.
Education settings told us they have used the findings to help improve support for pupils and inform school development plans.
The 2025 survey was completed by 13,348 young people (over 60% more than in 2023) and 98 education settings. Questions were focused on the following topics:
- Physical Health and Mental Wellbeing
- Smoking, Vaping, Alcohol and Drugs
- Relationships and Sexual Health
- School Life
- Home and Community Life
The survey supports children and young people to access their right to be heard, involved and taken seriously, supporting Articles 12 and 13 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
For more information on children’s rights in Cornwall, visit the council’s website.