Safe and Sound, Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity, marked a crucial moment for young victim advocacy earlier this month as its Victim Support Group hosted a unique, youth-led feedback event at their Osmaston Community Hub.

The event, which saw young people deliver both positive and challenging feedback based on their real-world experiences with services, was attended by key decision-makers, including representatives from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), senior police officers, teachers, social workers and other vital professionals. The initiative, described as a “protest” by the young participants, aimed to ensure that service experiences – both good and bad – are taken directly to those responsible for designing and delivering support for victims of crime.

The engagement and confidence displayed by the young people were immediately recognised by the attendees, including the representative from the OPCC.

A spokesperson for the Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner commented on the impact of the evening saying, “Huge thanks to Safe and Sound. The fact that so many of the girls attended and were happy to engage is testament to the trust and confidence that you all give them. It wouldn’t have been possible without your collaboration.”

Tracy Harrison, CEO at Safe and Sound said, “The evening was powerful. It wasn’t about conventional complaining; it was about empowering young survivors to become architects of their own support systems. When young people who have been through trauma feel safe enough to share their truth with policy makers, that is a true measure of our success and the community’s commitment to change. We are incredibly proud of their courage and look forward to seeing this direct, honest feedback translate into tangible improvements in service delivery.”

The initiative grew directly out of the charity’s regular Victim Support Group sessions, which serve as a secure space for sharing and healing. The success of the event now establishes a clear pathway for ongoing dialogue between young victims and official bodies, driving collaborative improvements in local safeguarding services.