This issue focuses on Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) which recognises every child’s right to rest, leisure, play and to participate fully in cultural and artistic life.

Throughout this edition you will find uplifting examples of such work, including the contribution from Spectacle Theatre, who have used drama to co-design with young people improvements to mental health services for their peers, and Theatr Iolo’s mission to deliver dramatic work for young audiences which demonstrates the same artistic respect, complexity and emotional depth as that provided for adults. Claire Hathway, Children in Wales, shares insights from her recent report on young people’s experiences of the ALN system and how creativity was key to unlocking those experiences; and Gwen Jenkins provides a fantastic account from the Young Wales Summit, held in November. Two Rhythms demonstrate the power of creativity in supporting a child they have worked with for over 10 years, and there is also a wonderful contribution from Neath Port Talbot Children’s Rights Unit, describing how creativity becomes a language of rights, transforming abstract principles into lived experiences of voice, joy and participation.

There are many more inspiring contributions for you to read and thank you to everyone for taking the time to write the articles. It is a privilege to share the work you all do to help children in Wales access their rights.

Read the magazine here