Children’s Policy Forum

The Children’s Policy Forum is a space for Members of Children in Northern Ireland (CiNI) to come together, share expertise, and influence government policy affecting children, young people, and families.

It builds on the legacy of previous policy groups convened by CiNI, including the Child Poverty Alliance and the Children with Disabilities Strategic Alliance, bringing together a wide range of organisations with one shared goal: ensuring that children’s rights are respected and upheld in Northern Ireland.

Purpose and mission

The forum exists to: 

  • Provide a regular space to discuss government strategies, legislation, and policy affecting children and families.
  • Identify shared strategic priorities for lobbying and influencing.
  • Shine a light on children being disadvantaged by policy and structural barriers.
  • Create opportunities for collaboration on policy submissions, research, and advocacy.

The Forum is not a campaign group and does not speak on behalf of CiNI members.

Instead, it provides an open and supportive environment where organisations can exchange knowledge, align on priorities, and make the most of limited resources 

How it works

CiNI convenes quarterly meetings, sometimes more often depending on government business, and chairs discussions to ensure all voices are heard.

Meetings typically include:

  • welcome and introductions – setting the scene
  • presentation by invited speakers – often departmental officials, linked to a live government consultation
  • open discussion along with question and answers – for members to raise questions, challenges, share frontline experience, and identify gaps
  • close and feedback – summary of key themes and collection of member reflections all provided in notes to attendees

Why It Matters

Children in Northern Ireland face significant challenges – from poverty and inequality to unmet needs in health, education, and wellbeing. The Policy Forum provides a key platform for the sector, ensuring that:

  • government strategies reflect the lived realities of children and families
  • the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) is recognised and resourced as an essential partner
  • policymakers hear from those working directly with children about what is and isn’t working

Membership

The Policy Forum is open to organisations that:

  • operate in Northern Ireland at an operational and/or policy level
  • support children, young people, parents/carers, or families
  • are registered Members of Children in Northern Ireland

Want to join or learn more about the Children’s Policy Forum?

Contact: ernest@ci-ni.org.uk