In Our Own Words, a youth‑led research project developed through Surrey Youth Voice, has just released its findings and recommendations from the 2026 study, offering an honest and insightful look at the experiences of children and young people across the county.

This landmark project places young people at the centre of the conversation. Through interviews, creative activities, and peer‑to‑peer research, participants explored what life in Surrey feels like for them: what’s working, what isn’t, and what adults need to understand if they want to make things better.

The findings highlight several recurring themes: the importance of feeling listened to, the need for safe and supportive spaces, and the impact of pressures around school, wellbeing, identity, and access to opportunities. Young people shared both challenges and moments of pride, painting a nuanced picture of their day‑to‑day realities.

The recommendations are practical, ambitious, and rooted in lived experience. They call for:

• More consistent opportunities for young people to shape services
• Better mental health and wellbeing support
• Stronger relationships between adults and young people built on trust
• Inclusive spaces where every young person feels they belong
• Clearer communication and easier access to help when it’s needed

In Our Own Words is a reminder that young people are experts in their own lives. When we listen to them, we create education, support, and community systems that work better for everyone.

You can read the full findings and recommendations from both 2025 and 2026, along with details about how the project was carried out, on Surrey Youth Voice’s website: In Our Own Words – Research Project