South Ribble Youth Council seeks new recruits

13 to 17 year olds* across the borough are encouraged to join the South Ribble Borough Council’s Youth Council to make decisions and lead change.

The Youth Council offers a platform to collaborate, influence decisions and bring ideas to life.

To date the projects delivered by the Youth Council have focused on important themes such as young people’s mental health, climate change and the cost of living.  Meeting around six times per academic term, the Youth Council will seek to continue tackling key issues facing the younger generation and the wider community, taking an active lead on projects that improve the lives of others.

Those looking to join the Youth Council can register their interest by completing the form at www.southribble.gov.uk/youthcouncil.

Deputy Leader of South Ribble Borough Council, Councillor Aniela Bylinski Gelder, said, “Having a youth council is so important to us as we want to make sure that democracy is accessible to everyone.

“Not only does the youth council allow for young people to get involved in decision making, but it also allows us to really understand the issues facing young people, and what we can do as a council to support.”

Members of the Youth Council will have the opportunity to:

• Shape projects that matter by designing and leading campaigns on issues important to young people and the wider community
• Share their views with community leaders and decision makers to help ensure young voices and experiences are heard
• Collaborate with a diverse group of young people, community groups and organisations
• Build confidence, gain experience and develop key life skills such as leadership and teamwork
• Take part in volunteering, training and events

One Youth Council member said that being on the council, “Helped me to grow my confidence, taught me practical skills such as project planning and organisation”.

Another said, “It has allowed me to build my confidence and feel comfortable to share opinions within this safe space”.

Councillor Bylinski Gelder continued, “Being involved in the Youth Council can provide a wealth of experience and skills which can be used in all aspects of life, so if you are a young person living in South Ribble who wants to get a really valuable experience while doing great things for your community – I encourage you to get involved.”

Find out more about the Youth Council at www.southribble.gov.uk/youthcouncil and complete the form to register your interest.