Thursday 4 June 2014

Kiwi kids’ chance to have their voices heard

10-12 year olds needed for global children’s survey

ChildFund wants Kiwi children to have their views heard worldwide in the largest annual poll of children’s opinions.

Now in its sixth year, ChildFund’s Small Voices, Big Dreams survey asks thousands of children from Afghanistan to Zambia their views on important issues encountered in their daily lives.

Any child in New Zealand aged 10 to 12 years old is eligible to give their views on six questions. The survey takes only a few minutes to complete online at www.childfund.org.nz.

The results from the Small Voices, Big Dreams survey provide valuable insights into childhood in different parts of the world and send strong messages to parents, governments and agencies everywhere, says ChildFund New Zealand CEO Paul Brown.

“Children have far more knowledge and understanding of the world than they are often given credit for. Their views and experiences are important and they deserve to be heard.”

Last year 6,000 children from 44 countries, including more than 600 Kiwis, gave their opinions on child rights. This year the questions focus on their views on safety and protection for children.

As the world decides on a new set of global goals to eradicate poverty, ChildFund wants to make sure that the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals include targets to stop child violence and exploitation.

The Sustainable Development Goals will set the global agenda for the next generation, and governments, including New Zealand, will commit to making them a reality.

“By using this global survey to provide a platform for children’s views on the issue of child protection, we are giving a voice to some of the world's most vulnerable and overlooked children,” says Mr Brown.

Printed copies of the survey with a self-addressed, stamped envelope can also be requested from Kiri Carter at kiri@childfund.org.nzor phone 0800 223 111.

ENDS

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