Care Day 2026

World Care Day is an international celebration of children and young people who grew up in care, and is celebrated by a collective of nine global organisations that represent and/or advocate for those with care experience.

These are: EPIC in Ireland, VOYPIC in Northern Ireland, Who Cares? Scotland, Become Charity in the UK, Voices from Care in Wales, Fepa in Spain, Fice in Croatia, CREATE Foundation in Australia and VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai in Aotearoa New Zealand (that’s us).

In 2026, World Care Day is being held on Friday 20th February.

Our theme this year is Breaking Barriers.

Why “Breaking Barriers”?

Young people in care face unique challenges…from stigma and stereotypes, to barriers in education, housing, health, transitioning to independence, and reconnecting with their whānau and loved ones. Here at VOYCE, we see young people constantly breaking down these barriers – even when they shouldn’t have to bear that responsibility.

Breaking Barriers is about celebrating those achievements while calling on the community, services, caregivers, and decision makers to play their part in removing the obstacles and systems that stand in the way. Together, we can create a better future for all young people in care.

How to get involved

For young people

World Care Day is all about YOU. Your stories, your strengths, your future. Here’s how you can join in:

  • Share your story: Post a photo or short video about a barrier you’ve broken. Use the hashtags #BreakingBarriers and #WorldCareDay
  • Get creative: Draw, write, or make something that shows what “Breaking Barriers” means to you, and share it with VOYCE.

For Sector, Partners & Community

Help us show the world that together we can break barriers for kids in care:

  • Take the Pledge: Download and print our pledge template, write your commitment (“I’m breaking barriers by…”) and share a photo on social media with #BreakingBarriers #WorldCareDay and tag us!
  • Join the Conversation: Share VOYCE’s posts, stats and young people’s stories to help challenge the stigma surrounding care experienced young people.
  • Champion Change: Use your platform to highlight to the achievements of young people in care and the barriers we still need to break.

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.