Youth councils allow young people to voice their concerns and play an active role in their community. They provide an insight into local politics and make young people feel represented, allowing them to improve their quality of life.
The Elstree and Borehamwood Youth Council has eight members aged 11 to 18. There are 620 similar youth councils across the UK.
The council receives a small budget to spend on the community each year. Members review costs and vote for approval to ensure they spend money efficiently. Two members of the town council attend monthly meetings to provide guidance and support.
The youth council works with local businesses and charities, some of which have representatives at meetings. They work with First Impressions, creators of the Film and TV Heritage Trail that goes through the high street, to maintain decorative planters around Elstree and Borehamwood Station.
Alex Sneader, chairman of the youth council, said, “Something we are looking forward to this year is that we will have representatives at the town council’s new sustainable transport sub-group that will help to develop eco-friendly transport in the area.”
“The aim of the sub-group will be to develop proposals for working in partnership with other agencies to deliver new sustainable transport options in the town. These might include electric car clubs, cycle hire schemes, more cycle lanes, and other projects that will encourage the use of environmentally friendly transport as well as helping people to stay active.”
The youth council uses the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Crier to inform locals about their work. They also write to schools to let them know how pupils can get involved.
Being a youth councillor comes with many benefits, including an annual trip to the Houses of Parliament. Mr Sneader said of his experience: “I first joined the youth council three years ago and have greatly enjoyed my time as a youth councillor. It has allowed me to develop my own skills, by both working with others on a team but also by allowing me to lead projects. It has also provided a good insight into local politics.”
If you live or attend school in Elstree and Borehamwood and would like to learn more about the youth council, visit http://www.elstreeborehamwood-tc.gov.uk/index.php/yourcouncil/youth-council. To find your local youth council, visit your council’s website.
