Our recent Annual Performance Assessment (APA) made a number of very positive comments about this area, stating that: "efforts to involve children and young people in decision making at all levels are outstanding. This is a council where children and young people really do have a voice." This article talks about some of the ways in which young people are involved in positive activities within their local communities.
The Tellus survey of children and young people was undertaken last year – this showed that year 6 pupils in the East Riding, compared to the national average:
• Are more active
• Smoke less and drink less alcohol
• Enjoy school more
• Try their best more frequently
• Are more likely to have something to raise money for charity or a local group in the
past year
• Are more active in school councils.
This is also reflected in the positive work of the Youth Assembly which has developed innovative initiatives to improve information to young people about sexual health issues, which is a major concern nationally.
Young people have also been responsible for the allocation of almost £300,000 of funds to support local activities through the Youth Opportunities Grant and the Youth Capital Fund. They took part in a range of activities on 23 November 2007 as part of 11 Million Takeover Day – from working with the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, to being involved in interviews for the Local Safeguarding Board, to holding a press conference to highlight issues of concern such as bullying. This last activity involved requiring managers from across Children’s Services to make pledges to address these issues – which the young people will follow up to ensure action has been taken.
When so much of the national and local media reports only negative stories about young people, it is good to see how many are active in making things better for others.
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