When speaking about the next generation, we’re told more young people need to be politically aware.

We agree. But we also agree this generation is as engaged as any.

Worcestershire Youth Cabinet is a youth-led group of elected members aged 11-18.

We aim to give young people a voice that is listened to by decisionmakers and community leaders alike.

We work cross party with multiple agencies to advise on any relevant youth issues, including carrying out a consultation on their behalf,advising on accessibility of services and sharing good practice of effective youth engagement.

Elected members spend their time working on their election pledges as well as any other opportunities they want to engage in. Wyre Forest has five members currently working with the ContinU Trust, Positive Activities and many others in engaging young people in social action.

We have recently been working with the Local Economic Partnership to develop an online work-experience web-portal where young people can undergo a placement with one of Worcestershire’s strategic business such as Worcester Bosch or Malvern Instruments.

Over 100 placements have been secured since its launch.

We are also working with Wyre Forest District Council to develop a Youth Council.

A big part of our work is holding our elections, ensuring we have an active new intake of young people to take youth voice forward. Being a member of Worcestershire Youth Cabinet is an amazing opportunity.

I encourage as many young people aged between 11 and 18 to think about standing for election. I promise you will not regret it.

To find out more about Worcestershire Youth Cabinet, email us at kraser@worcestershire.

gov.uk, or call us on 07768981108.

Craig Bateman Member of Worcestershire Youth Cabinet for Wyre Forest