This is the 5th year of Hastings Young Persons Council. This is a unique project funded by HBC in partnership with the Youth Development Service. The Council has its own dedicated room in the basement of the Youth Information Shop and meets twice a week on Monday and Thursday evenings.
Young people elect 32 young people aged 13 -25 from the whole town and the ballot takes place in schools, colleges and youth organisations and the town centre. The last election was held in April this year and the new youth councillors have just been away on a residential weekend to plan their agenda for the year and to elect their officers.
Phil Carey is the chairperson and Krystal Finch is the vice-chair.
The Young Persons Council aims to give all young people in the town a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
It provides a forum for young people in the town to debate issues and consult politicians, authorities and agencies.
It aims to include all young people from different backgrounds, ethnic groups and abilities and to consult a wide range of young people regularly.
During the last five years the Council has helped to achieve better facilities and change for young people. We met with councillors on a regular basis through the Youth Forum and hold open meetings in the Council Chamber to report on the work undertaken.
The plans for 2003/4 are very ambitious, but we hope to achieve a good part of this. We have been told that this is the 'Year of Delivery', and that young people's views are important to Hastings Borough Council.
Our main aim this year is to see the completion of a Youth Strategy for the town and completion of a Youth Facilities Audit. We will ensure that young people are involved and consulted in this process and hope to hold a keynote event in the Autumn. We already have a group of young people who are involved in meetings and planning.
When we meet, we work in issue groups. Some of things that we want to work on are:
Individuals will continue to sit on other groups to give young peoples perspective. If you want to know more or tell us your views, check us out on 781395, email sherriott@hastings.gov.uk or look on our website, http:www.youngpersonscouncil.com
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This page last updated: 03/07/2003