Doc Media Centre

The What You Saying? Young Voices on Healthcare (2024) film stands as a testament to the Documentary Media Centre’s commitment to ensuring that young people are meaningfully involved in shaping healthcare services. Commissioned by the NHS Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland ICB, this project involved consultation with over 3,000 young people, parents, caregivers, and professionals. The film captures the findings of this large-scale engagement, focusing on the experiences and needs of children and young people in healthcare.

Working closely with the ICB, the Documentary Media Centre used creative participatory methods to help young people share their experiences and thoughts. The aim was to make the data not just accessible but impactful, offering insights that would lead to real change. The film was premiered at the NSPCC conference centre, during a special event led by the young people who were directly involved in the film’s creation. Their involvement ensures the film truly reflects their voices, perspectives, and priorities.

Key findings from the consultation highlighted challenges faced by young people in accessing healthcare, as well as a need for more youth-friendly services. The film serves as an accessible summary of the project’s 156-page report, offering an engaging way for young audiences to engage with the research.The Documentary Media Centre remains committed to embedding young people’s voices at every stage of healthcare development, working alongside decision-makers to coproduce solutions that will directly influence future services. This project marks just the beginning of ongoing efforts to ensure youth perspectives continue to shape the healthcare landscape in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

Tina Barton

Education & Engagement Lead

Documentary Media Centre