Inclusion of young carers and children as next of kin in participation mechanisms across Europe: a rapid realist review of participation mechanisms in scientific and grey literature on the European union level and in Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Slovenia and Sweden

The study aims to review evidence of the participation of young carers and children as next of kin in mechanisms designed to ensure youth participation in Europe. A rapid realist review was conducted as part of the OUR VOICES project. The scientific component of the review identified systemic and structural barriers, as well as individual-level barriers, that prevent children from meaningfully participating in matters affecting their lives. The grey literature review indicated that, although frameworks for child participation exist across countries, their implementation is inconsistent. Vulnerable children are neither adequately recognised nor consistently supported, and their participation often depends on local resources and political commitment. Young carers and children as next of kin remain largely invisible as a subgroup of vulnerable children. The success of participatory mechanisms is supported by trusted, empathetic and knowledgeable adults, as well as by ensuring sufficient diversity in the modes and methods of participation to make them accessible and appealing to young people.