Quick Exit
Quick Exit
Young people with lived experience played an important role in shaping conversations at the Youth Summit 2026, sharing honest insights about what meaningful reform and support should look like for children and young people in care.
One of those voices was Angus, who spoke openly about his own experience growing up in care and the impact that environment, stability and support can have on a young person’s future.
“Environments shape behaviour. Support shapes direction,” Angus shared during the summit.
His message highlighted the importance of recognising behaviour as communication — not simply something to punish or control — and the need for responses grounded in understanding, trust and trauma-informed care.
Angus also acknowledged the challenges carers can face and spoke about the importance of ensuring foster carers and support networks receive the guidance and support they need to create safe, stable environments for young people.
While his story reflected the realities many young people experience, it was also a story of resilience, growth and possibility. Angus demonstrated the powerful impact that safe relationships, encouragement and consistent support can have in helping young people build confidence, connection and hope for the future.
The Youth Summit created an important platform for lived experience voices to be heard and recognised in conversations about reform, reminding everyone that real change happens when systems listen, understand and respond with care that helps young people thrive.
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