A pioneering research facility, the Children’s Voices Centre (CVC), officially opened on October 1, 2023, at the Bathurst campus of Charles Sturt University. Directed by renowned researcher Sharynne McLeod, the CVC aims to elevate the voices of children in research concerning their health and well-being, establishing itself as a unique hub for child-centered studies.
Professor McLeod, whose work focuses on enhancing equitable participation for children with speech, language, and communication needs, expressed her vision for the centre, stating, “It’s focused on research with children, for children and about children.” She emphasized the importance of involving children in decision-making processes, highlighting that they are not only the future of society but also its present.
The Children’s Voices Centre is set to embark on a significant project in partnership with the World Health Organization. Professor McLeod noted that the WHO has invited her team to create a research initiative aimed at capturing children’s perspectives on health and their access to healthcare services worldwide. This project is scheduled to be presented at an upcoming WHO meeting in Fiji later this year.
Global Collaboration for Children’s Health
The CVC is also collaborating with the United Nations, which plays a key role in guiding the centre’s research direction. Professor McLeod remarked, “There’s nowhere else in the world to do this research,” underscoring the vital nature of their work, which requires attention from global organizations like the UN and WHO.
Currently, the CVC is engaging children as active partners in research projects. One initiative invites children to draw representations of themselves, alongside their interpretations of health and the features of ideal healthcare environments. “So far, we have received well over 100 drawings from about 14 different countries,” Professor McLeod stated, noting that these contributions come from children of all abilities, with a particular emphasis on the voices of those with disabilities.
In an additional research effort, the CVC is working with the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service to create a library of books that reflect Indigenous voices and perspectives. This resource aims to be accessible globally, catering to the needs of Indigenous communities.
The Future of the Children’s Voices Centre
Professor McLeod acknowledged that the success of the Children’s Voices Centre is due to the dedication of its remarkable team, affectionately known as The Treehouse. Justin Williams, manager of development for Charles Sturt University’s advancement department, praised the centre’s unique facilities, stating, “It’s amazing, in fact, it’s unique in the world.”
The CVC features dedicated spaces for children’s play and creativity, along with offices and research areas designed for academic collaboration. However, Williams noted the urgent need for public funding to ensure the centre’s ongoing success. “My main role is to raise funds for the things that we’re doing,” he explained. “Philanthropy is going to be a real driver to continue the great work of this centre.”
As the Children’s Voices Centre begins its important work in Bathurst, it represents a transformative step in acknowledging children’s perspectives in health research. With the backing of influential organizations like the WHO and the UN, the centre is poised to make a lasting impact on global understanding of children’s health and well-being.
