Youth Conference shapes priorities

Blaby District Youth Council

Young people in the district were given the chance to have their say on issues most important to them at the first Blaby District Youth Conference.

The conference was part of a recruitment drive to sign up new members and increase the reach of young people’s voice in the district. Working with secondary schools in the area, over 60 students from Countesthorpe Leysland Community College, The Winstanley School and Brockington Community College took part in the event at Enderby Leisure Centre.

With the event led and planned by the Blaby District Youth Council, young people had the opportunity to meet their Councillors, including Leader Councillor Terry Richardson, Youth Champion Councillor Adrian Clifford and Liberal Democrat Councillor Geoff Welsh. MP for South Leicestershire Alberto Costa was also at the event to answer questions from students.

Presentations we given on topics discussed in the morning with a final vote on the top three issues young people believe to be the most important. With an increased media spotlight on the issues, Knife Crime, Anti-social behaviour, gangs and drugs as well as bullying were identified to be the top priorities for young people in the district.

Councillor Sheila Scott, Portfolio Holder for Planning, Housing Strategy, Economic and Community Development, said: “This fantastic event which was delivered by our Youth Council, and was a huge success. The young people participated in a variety of debates and interacted with myself and my fellow District Councillors.

“The young people in attendance had a great day and we thank them for their input on the Youth Council’s priorities for the year. We hope they feel inspired to join our Youth Council as they look to tackle these issues on behalf of young people in the district.”

The Blaby District Youth Council, through the Partnerships team and with the support of Councillors, will begin their work on the three chosen topics.

Anyone aged 11-19 (or 24 with additional needs) can join the Youth Council. For more information about attending a future Youth Council meeting, visit www.blaby.gov.uk/youthcouncil or email .