ABOUT THE YOUTH FORUM

The Idea

The Youth Forum originated to try and establish young people's views on drugs issues. This was suggested at the Council's Community Safety Group but was quickly widened into establishing an ongoing dialogue with young people.

An initial exploratory meeting with young people in March 1997 was positive and the first Youth Forum was held in November 1997. Since then three forums have been held each year.

Up to 6 representatives from years 10,11 and 12 (aged 14 – 18) are invited from state and independent secondary schools in the Vale. This includes Didcot and the European School as many of the pupils live in the Vale.

Drugs, leisure provision, environmental issues, health, prevention of vandalism are just a few of the topics that have been covered.

The consultation that has taken place at the Forums has contributed to various Council plans such as leisure provision and Police annual plans.

The Forums Develop

The Forums are a combination of presentations or talks, open discussion and various panels such as the Drugs Action Team and representatives from the local media.

The local MPs and MEPs regularly come to answer challenging questions from the representatives.

A group of councillors regularly attend the Forum meetings and report back to their colleagues.

A project was set for the young people which resulted in the forming of a reading club for 7-11 year olds which ran from 4th Mar until 8th Apr 2000 which received a very positive feedback from children and their parents.

The Youth Forum Now

The aim of the Youth Forum is primarily to listen to young people's views but also to give them some idea of the Council's work.

Feedback from the young people participating and their schools is positive and strong links have been formed. Head Teachers are given the opportunity to discuss the forum annually each June.

Consultation is a high priority for the Council and young people's views are as important as those of their elders so the Youth Forum is now a well established part of the Council's agenda.