13 June 2023
Final preparations are underway for the second public family event for Jersey Children’s
Day on Sunday 2, July.
Since this year’s edition was announced in April, more than 45 organisations have offered
their support for the day, along with around 30 people who have volunteered to help run
the event.
The free event will include live music from a range of youth performers, entertainment and
activities, and a community tent where families can access information, advice and
guidance.
Families are encouraged to bring a child-friendly, alcohol-free picnic. Limited discounted
catering will be available and free refreshment facilities provided by Jersey Water.
Children’s Day 2023 will also feature a children’s art project delivered by CYPES, in
collaboration with ArtHouse Jersey with support for Phillip’s Footprints and Acorn
Industries.
All primary school children have been invited to design a dream catcher from recycled
materials to represent children’s rights. Materials are being delivered to Island schools
today, with the final works being displayed during the event.
Since 2020, Jersey Children’s Day has been held each year on – or close to – 3 July in line
with recommendation by a Citizens’ Panel that was set up after the Independent Jersey
Care Inquiry (IJCI).
The Panel called for 3 July to be Jersey Children’s Day, to commemorate the date in 2017
that the IJCI published its report into Jersey’s care system over many decades. It is
designed as a day to remember the failings of the past, look forward to the future,
celebrate children and highlight their rights under the United Nations Convention on the
Rights of the Child.
The emblem for Children’s Day – which features children, butterflies and birds – was
designed by Haute Vallée student Jodie Perkins in 2020, following an Island-wide
competition.
Speaking at the time, Jodie said: "My design represents how children should feel safe
where they are, they should be able to cope with change and that they should be
recognised for their full potential."
Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Inna Gardiner said: “I’d like to thank everyone
who has contacted us to get involved with Children’s Day. This event has always been
intended and designed as an event for – and by – the whole community, so it’s wonderful
to see people getting involved.
“I’d also like to thank the Children’s Day Steering Group, and especially Cheyenne
O’Connor and the team, for all of their work behind the scenes. We look forward to
welcoming families back for this one-of-a-kind event.”
Cheyenne O’Connor, of the independent survivor’s group at the Community Partnership
Trust, said: “We’ve had an amazing response from all the businesses and communities and
I’d like to thank them all. It’s important that we mark Children’s Day, not just because it’s a
great day for families, but so we don’t forget the lessons of the past.”
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