Welcome to our Annual Report and Accounts for 2023-24.
The link to the report is below:
The Annual Report includes the following foreword from Commissioner Chris Quinn:
“At the time of writing, I am almost exactly a year in office, and whilst there have been many positives the last 12 months has not been without challenge. We have continued to fulfil our statutory duties, but the current financial context has made this extremely challenging, and I do worry about the years ahead.
I want to start by acknowledging and celebrating the commitment and dedication of the Staff at NICCY. It’s important to pause and reflect on the impact and importance of this office. NICCY was established 21 years ago and has helped countless numbers of children and young people along the way.
It is hugely positive that we have welcomed our Assembly back as and from February 2024, and I am hopeful that we will see political stability and in turn enhanced collective efforts to safeguard and promote the rights and well-being of children and young people in Northern Ireland.
The publication of the New Decade New Approach (NDNA) review of the NI Commissioner for Children and Young People offer an opportunity for NICCY’s Article 24 recommendations to be realised, and to protect the independence of this office.
It would be remis of me not to highlight my concerns with regards to the extent to which children’s rights in Northern Ireland are indeed facing significant challenges. It is well documented that at times of crisis children suffer disproportionately. I am concerned that in almost every issue I look at, I can see breaches of child rights. Several factors contribute to this, and the situation is complex, involving social, economic, political, and systemic issues that have been exacerbated in recent years. However, I am a firm believer of ‘where there is a will there is a way’ and our policy makers have both the responsibility and the power to turn the tide.
We need to move away from pouring resources into systems that do not work, focus more on early intervention and prevention and move towards incorporating the UNCRC into domestic law.
Over the next number of years this will be a focus for my office and I. I believe that not only will this approach ensure enhanced protections for children, and strengthen NI’s international reputation, but it provides a framework for the promotion of child centred policies, encourages a holistic approach to child welfare not only addressing immediate needs but also long-term development and wellbeing.
I am committed to enhancing the voices of children and young people in my work and in the work of this office. At the heart of this report lies a clear message: the voices of our children and young people must not only be heard but must be acted upon. Throughout the year, we have continued to amplify their concerns, hopes, and aspirations, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of policy discussions and decision-making processes.
It is important to recognise the work of others in the children and young people’s sector, particularly those in the community and voluntary sector who have seen significant cuts in their budgets and in turn, detrimental impact on the children, young people and families that we collectively serve.
In an era of unprecedented social, economic, and environmental challenges, it is more critical than ever that we uphold our commitment to fostering an inclusive society where every young person can thrive and where their rights are protected.
The ongoing impact of poverty, inequality, and systemic barriers continues to pose significant risks to the welfare of our younger generations. Our role as advocates, therefore, remains as vital as ever.
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed to our work over the past year. To the children and young people who have bravely shared their stories and experiences, your voices are the driving force behind everything we do. To our partners in government, education, health, and the voluntary sector, your collaboration is essential in turning our shared vision into reality.
As we look to the year ahead, our focus will be on strengthening our efforts to address the root causes of disadvantage and inequity. We will continue to push for systemic change that not only addresses immediate needs but also builds a foundation for a fairer and more just society for all children and young people in Northern Ireland.
Together, we must ensure that every child is given the opportunity to reach their full potential, free from discrimination and disadvantage. This report is not just a reflection of the work done but a call to action for all of us to remain vigilant, committed, and united in our mission.
For Every Child, Every Right!”
Should you have any queries/comments on our Annual Report, you can contact our Interim Chief Executive Alex Tennant.
Our previous Annual Reports are below:
