29/03/04 - Engaging young people in local decisions

Recently, Cumbria County Council’s Local Committee for Copeland agreed to contribute £10k towards the ‘Engaging Young People in the Democratic Process’ Project in partnership with Connexions Cumbria, so it can continue for the next six months and more young people can become more involved in the democratic processes for their area.

Last year the Local Committee contributed £10k to this project as a pilot for 6 months.  It has been so successful that continuing the project would further benefit the young people of the area. 

County Councillor Ronnie Calvin, Chair of the Local Committee says

“I am delighted that the Committee has been able to continue to fund such a worthwhile project.  It is very difficult to engage young people in the political process when they do not understand how it is relevant to them. We don’t want the young people of this area to feel that they do not have a say about what happens in Copeland.  We want them to have ‘a voice’ and become involved in influencing local priorities.  Young people have an important and valuable role to play in our communities and we want to encourage more young people to become involved in the democratic process within their own area, after all they will be tomorrow’s community leaders.  By listening to what these young people have to say, will give us a better understanding of their needs and their visions for the future.”