Young people tell their Council what they want

Young people from across the county have been telling Herefordshire Youth Council what changes they would like to see locally and nationally.

The Youth Council was established last year and one of its first tasks has been to investigate which issues are most important to the county’s 11-18 year olds.  A questionnaire was designed and tested out in two schools, before youth councillors delivered it to schools and colleges across Herefordshire. 

Around 700 questionnaires came back which, when analysed, suggested that the top concerns for young people were the provision of facilities, environmental issues, health and education.

Following the survey analysis in December, the Youth Council organised a meeting of young people at John Kyrle High School to discuss some of the issues highlighted in more detail.

Bullying and litter were top of the agenda followed by discussions on how to improve resources for young people in Herefordshire, particularly in relation to more sporting and music rehearsal opportunities.  Their concerns will be considered by the new Youth Council once elected

Andy Preedy Herefordshire Council’s Assistant Youth Service Manager, said: “The Youth Council worked really hard to get these questionnaires distributed across the county. To get 700 back is fantastic and gives the Council a strong understanding of what young people feel is important.

“Once the new members of the Youth Council are elected, we will be setting up further sessions in schools to look at the issues identified in more detail. From these meetings, we intend to set up action groups to begin lobbying for real significant changes.

“We want young people to have a voice which is meaningful and the Youth Council is a way of making sure this happens.”

Nominees are currently being sought for this year’s elections.  Ring 01432 383008  or visit the Youth Council web site for information (www.herefordshireyouthcouncil.co.uk).