Young people from across Wiltshire have gathered for their first event as newly elected Wiltshire Youth Councillors, marking the start of their two-year terms representing the views of young people across the county.
Pupils from 13 schools and one college took part in this year’s Wiltshire Youth Elections. The event brought together the successful candidates to meet council leaders, celebrate their appointments and begin planning the priorities they want to champion for young people.
A total of 41 Wiltshire Youth Councillors have been elected and will represent the voices of young people in discussions with Wiltshire Council and partner organisations.
The councillors will meet regularly with councillors and cabinet members, review services affecting young people and communicate with their peers to ensure their views are reflected in local decision-making.
They will also take part in monthly full Youth Council meetings focused on issues that matter most to young people. Training and support will be provided to help councillors develop skills including debating, youth inspections and presenting their ideas.
Wiltshire Youth Council also includes Special Advisors, who help ensure the views of under-represented groups are heard. These roles represent groups such as young carers, LGBTQ+ young people and young people from military families.
At the first meeting, Cullin was appointed Head Secretary, alongside a deputy and three Members of Youth Parliament and their deputies who will represent Wiltshire at a national level.
Cllr Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said, “Young people bring insight, challenge and fresh ideas to the decisions we make as a council. The Youth Council elections give young people a real opportunity to choose representatives who will speak up on their behalf and help shape priorities and services across Wiltshire.
“I would like to congratulate everyone who has been elected and thank all those who took part in the elections.”
Cullin, Head Secretary of Wiltshire Youth Council, added, “Having been acclimatised to councils in the school setting, I felt it was very intriguing to collaborate with other individuals within Wiltshire, sharing our ideas on how to cater to the desires of the youth.
“I also enjoyed listening to the words of highly ambitious people who were running as candidates to be the Member of Youth Parliament for their area or for Head Secretary. The bravery shown in expressing their passion for improving the lives of young people in Wiltshire fills me with hope that our council can create great change.”
The Wiltshire Youth Council supports the priorities of the Our Wiltshire Plan by ensuring young people are heard, involved and able to take part in decisions that affect their lives and communities.
