A link between children’s voices and the board’s decisions
IFK Umeå’s mapping, together with research, shows that children and young people want to and can influence their sport, but that their actual influence is often limited. Therefore, structures are needed to ensure their voices reach the places where decisions are made. The goal is real influence – not representation in itself. So, a child does not need to sit on the board to have influence. This role should not speak for children, but rather ensure that their own opinions are gathered, taken seriously, and weighed into decisions that affect them.
Purpose
To ensure that the voices of active members – especially children and youth – are heard and considered in the board’s decisions. The role aims to ensure that activities are designed with the best interests of children and youth in mind, in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Main tasks
- Present the perspectives of active members at board meetings, with a special focus on children and youth.
- Be aware of how decisions affect children and youth – raise questions regarding Child Impact Assessments where relevant.
- Gather opinions from active members within the section, for example, through conversations, surveys, or simple forums.
- Serve as a reminder in the boardroom that children and youth are experts on their own lives – and have the right to be heard on matters concerning their free time.
- Collaborate with leaders, coaches, and other key personnel to capture the needs and ideas of children and youth.
- Disseminate knowledge about the child rights perspective in board work.
