Young people’s Health and Wellbeing: Reflections from YPAS Peer Researchers
Two of YPAS Peer Researchers, Dean Leake and Grace Ward, have written a remarkable piece for The Lancet journal, one of the oldest medical journals, founded in 1823. This piece was published in its established specialty journal: ‘Child and Adolescent Health’, launched in 2017. The article offers commendable insight and reflection.
We wanted to share this with you as it is relevant to all the work that YPAS do, and it will give you some insight into the past work of their Peer Researchers and the significant impact that including young people in strategic direction can have, both upon them and also upon systemic change.
As the article states, “We must normalise hope by giving young people the ability to take control of their lives and futures…” (Ward, G. Leake, D. 2024). This speaks volumes about the importance of our work in ensuring that young people are empowered to have their voices heard as a standard part of our practice, both in individual journeys and in collective and public participation.
Monique Collier, CEO of Young Persons Advisory Service (YPAS) commented “I am incredibly proud of our dedicated Peer Researchers (Dean and Grace W) for their remarkable contribution to The Lancet journal. Their insightful essay in ‘Child and Adolescent Health’ underscores the critical importance of empowering young people and involving them in strategic decision-making.
This piece not only highlights their exceptional work but also reinforces our commitment at YPAS to uphold the principles of the UNCRC Article 12, ensuring that young voices are heard and valued in shaping their futures. Congratulations to Dean and Grace for their impactful work, which is a testament to the positive changes we can achieve through youth participation and engagement.”
Suziie Davis, Participation Coordinator commented, “This speaks volumes about the importance of the work that we do in ensuring that young people are empowered to have their voices heard as a standard part of our practice, both in individual journeys and in collective and public participation”.