RESPECT will give youngsters an independent person to represent them in matters connected to housing, education, and personal grievances.

The NSPCC launched the service last Wednesday with Croydon Council social services at the Clocktower. More than 100 young people in care in Croydon were there to draw up a charter of recommendations.

Lennie James, the actor and author of the recent TV drama on teenagers in care, Storm Damage, also went to talk about his own experiences in homes.

NSPCC children's rights officer, Guy Cave, said children saw decisions about education and accommodation as remote and bureaucratic.

"Children and young people have a right to have their views taken seriously in those decisions and to take an active part in shaping their lives," he said. "Our job is to help them find a voice. I have found that young people in Croydon welcome the chance RESPECT gives them to work with us and social services to improve the care system and to make sure it's really meeting their needs."

The recent Waterhouse Report into abuse in children's homes in North Wales recommended that every child in care should have access to an independent and trustworthy adult to act as an advocate for them. "RESPECT plays an important role in making this a reality in Croydon," said Mr Cave.

Divisional director for Croydon social services, Delroy Pomell, said:

"This is a great opportunity for Croydon to engage young people in planning, delivering and monitoring our services. We have made a fantastic start since September last year and the partnership with the NSPCC is working exceptionally well.

"The children and young people have given us a lot to think about and do. It is important that we don't let them down. I don't think we will."