Young people taking the lead in shaping their future

Young people across the country are being asked to share their views to help shape the services and facilities they need to improve their lives.

This big national consultation invites those aged 10-21 (or up to 25 for people with special educational needs and disabilities) to speak up about what’s important to them, including local services, funding, and issues in their communities.

The project is supported by the youth charity My Life My Say and the #iwill Movement. Through this, young people can talk to the Government both online and in person, ensuring their ideas are included in key decisions.

Young people’s input will come from surveys, focus groups called ‘Democracy Cafés’, and workshops. Their ideas will help create a National Youth Strategy that reflects their needs and hopes for the future.

Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, said: “We are handing power back to young people and their communities, giving them a genuine opportunity to help make the policies that affect their lives.

“We are providing young people with a genuine voice, delivering on our Plan for Change and creating opportunities in every part of the country.”

Minister for Civil Society, Stephanie Peacock, added: “We are breaking down the barriers to opportunity that young people face and giving them the chance to have their say – on what they want from the Government and how public policies can work for them.

“I encourage all young people to fill in the survey and tell us what you think so you can help shape a brighter future for you and your generation.”

A Youth Advisory Group has also been set up, with 13 young leaders from different backgrounds, including those working in advocacy, sport, social mobility, and mental health. This group will work with an Expert Advisory Group of professionals to make sure youth engagement has a real impact.

Sport and physical activity are key parts of the plan. Advisors like Isa Guha, sports presenter and founder of Take Her Lead, are making sure young people’s views on access to sport and recreation are heard. 

Young people can also take part in ‘Hackathon’ events to work with policymakers and researchers on solving big issues. This is part of the wider ‘Deliver You’ campaign, which aims to amplify youth voices and shape future policies.

Young people have until April 16 to share their views by completing the government’s survey here.