My Things Matter, National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) Cymru

NYAS Cymru, in partnership with all 22 local authorities in Wales, has brought about real change in how young people in care experience moving homes across Wales. 

The ‘My Things Matter’ project was co-produced with care-experienced young people and set out to end the use of bin bags when moving belongings – a practice that undermines dignity and self-worth. The initiative has driven real change, contributing to a national shift that now prohibits this practice. 

Through collaboration with partners such as Madlug, the Council for Wales of Voluntary Youth Services and local authorities across Wales, thousands of travel bags have been distributed to young people throughout Wales. The project has further strengthened sector-wide collaboration, amplifying the voices of young people across the youth work sector and embedding their experiences at a national level. At its core, ‘My Things Matter’ is rooted in youth work principles, empowering young people to shape agendas, influence decision-making, and drive meaningful, lasting change.

Judges were impressed by how the project was co-produced with care-experienced young people, and how partnerships transformed voices into action, driving a Wales-wide commitment to dignity, respect and better experiences in care.