The Commissioner has designed a postcard for South Australia’s Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence to engage with children and young people who may not otherwise be heard. The postcard asked children and young people about when they feel safe, what would make them feel safer, what they would do if someone they knew needed help to be safe, and what South Australia should do to prevent domestic and family violence.
Overall, there were several common themes and shared experiences regardless of background. However, some responses raised issues and experiences specific to children and young people’s living situation. There was also diversity amongst children and young people living in similar contexts, highlighting the complexity of children and young people’s experiences and the importance of listening to them and providing tailored support.
This snapshot summarises the responses received from over 110 children and young people aged 7 to 23 years, which highlight the importance of schools and community services in supporting children, young people and families earlier and consistently. The responses also emphasise the need to ensure children and young people have access to trusted adults and clear information about how and where to go for support that focuses on children and young people’s needs.