Teams of teenagers are being recruited to provide home truths about Sutton services under a new Young Inspectors scheme.
Volunteers trained by the Jigsaw4u children’s charity and Sutton Council will be able to suggest improvements to senior managers.
Kimberly Chimbganda, an inspector from Mitcham, said “The aim is to make public services more child-friendly so that they cater for children’s needs, have accessible buildings and facilities that are more welcoming for kids.
“We will give them feedback and recommend changes. We'll visit them again in two months’ time to see if things have changed.”
Ian Birnbaum, director of children’s services at Sutton Council, said: “The Young Inspectors scheme is about developing young people as active citizens to make them feel they can make a difference, and this leads to better services.
“They are going to tell us how they find the services in a measured, sensible way.”
An initial inspection report on the Jigsaw4u headquarters recommended a wheelchair ramp and more posters for a family room The findings are sent to the Department for Children Schools and Families and presented to the Sutton Youth Parliament.
To find out more call Charlene Quinn on 020 8770 5157 or email Charlene.quinn@sutton.gov.uk.
• Got a young family? See our Families section for top hints and help
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here