A groundbreaking facility dedicated to children’s health and perspectives has officially opened in Bathurst, Australia. The Children’s Voices Centre (CVC), situated on the campus of Charles Sturt University, launched on October 1, 2023, under the leadership of renowned researcher Sharynne McLeod. The centre aims to enhance equitable participation for children with speech, language, and communication needs while expanding its focus to include global health issues.
Professor McLeod, whose research ranks among the top two per cent of scientists worldwide, emphasizes the centre’s dual mission. “It’s focused on research with children, for children, and about children,” she stated. The CVC not only aims to gather children’s insights but also trains researchers to collaborate effectively, ensuring that children’s voices are not only heard but actively shape health-related discussions.
The significance of this initiative has attracted attention from major international organizations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has invited the centre to create a project that captures children’s perspectives on health and access to healthcare globally. Professor McLeod revealed that findings from this research will be presented at a WHO meeting in Fiji later this year, highlighting the centre’s role in influencing global health policies.
In collaboration with the United Nations (UN), the CVC is designed to conduct research that directly involves children as partners. Current projects include an initiative where children are invited to illustrate their understanding of health and describe their ideal healthcare environments. “So far, we have received well over 100 drawings from about 14 different countries,” McLeod reported, noting the diverse abilities of participants and a focus on the experiences of children with disabilities.
The centre also collaborates with local communities, exemplified by its partnership with the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service. This collaboration aims to produce a library of books created by Indigenous people for Indigenous people. These resources, available for download, are designed to promote cultural awareness and education globally.
Professor McLeod attributes the centre’s achievements to its dedicated team, affectionately referred to as The Treehouse. “The team is amazing,” she said, acknowledging their commitment to advancing the centre’s mission. Justin Williams, manager of development for Charles Sturt advancement, echoed her sentiments, describing the facility as “unique in the world.”
Despite the promising start, financial sustainability poses a challenge. Williams noted that public funding is crucial to continue the centre’s impactful work. “My main role is to raise funds for the things that we’re doing… philanthropy is going to be a real driver to continue the great work of this centre,” he stated, inviting potential supporters to contribute.
The Children’s Voices Centre represents a pioneering effort in integrating children’s perspectives into health research on a global scale. By prioritizing children’s voices and experiences, the centre not only aims to influence policy but also strives to create a more inclusive understanding of health care worldwide.
