The provincial government has created a new minister’s advisory council.

This one will focus on children and youth.

In a statement, Social Development Minister Cindy Miles said she met with young people last week during a youth-in-care roundtable.

“Their insights reaffirmed how essential it is to ensure young voices in care guide our decisions,” Miles said.

The advisory council was announced the day before Children and Youth in Care Day, Nov. 29.

Miles said the advisory council will bring together former youth in care, government representatives and community partners to advise on programs, services and policies that support children and youth in care, or those previously in care.

“Children and youth in care live with foster families, with kin, or in community-based resources,” Miles said. “And each carries a unique story of strength and perseverance. Often faced with hardships at a young age, their stories motivate us to do better and strengthen the supports around them.”

Miles said the perspectives of advisory council members will help the government strengthen implementation of the Child and Youth Well-being Act.

“Investing early in children helps build a stronger province by reducing the risk of homelessness, boosting educational outcomes and supporting mental well-being before challenges become more complex,” she said.

The council members will reflect the diverse languages, cultures and geographic regions of the province, including Indigenous communities.