nd engage with services from their first interactions with the local authority. They are supported to identify and include their family network from the outset, and the views of the family network are considered when considering the best interests of children and young people. • Every area makes sure that practice is flexible and adaptive so that the perspectives of children, whatever their age or ability, can be heard, including, where required, through the provision of independent advocacy. This includes consideration of the wishes and feelings of children who are not yet old enough to talk or who, for reasons of disability, cannot communicate verbally or prefer other means of communication, as well as provision for children for whom English is not their first language. • Every area supports children and young people to share their wishes and feelings freely and independently from the views of parents, carers, or other adults in their lives. • Every area has mechanisms for seeking to understand the hopes and aspirations of children and young people so that this information can shape individual support and the design of local services. • Every area uses data and evidence to support reflection on how children, young people and families are responding to the help available and explore, with them, whether it is meeting its objectives. 31 How senior leaders should achieve this outcome in practice • Leaders design services that are ambitious for the best possible outcomes of children, young people, and families. As part of this process, leaders consider the journey of the whole family through services, and from their first interactions with children’s social care, place strong relationships and effective communication with parents and carers at the heart of practice. • Lead