COMMISSIONER FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

The Commissioner wants the Office to base all its work on thorough research when helping children and young people, and has been working with universities and other agencies to do this. The Commissioner has the power to undertake general inquiries into issues where she believes children are being adversely affected. This may be an informal inquiry or a more formal investigation with the same powers of the High Court (as detailed in our legislation) that can include requesting documents or the attendance or examination of witnesses. She can also respond to requests from the Assembly and Parliament to look at issues. The Commissioner is also required to review the ways that those providing services for children listen to complaints and take account of childrens' views.