Young people from Knowsley came together recently to have their say on important developments affecting local young people to help shape future decisions across Knowsley.
Working alongside Knowsley Council, Merseyside Youth Association (MYA) brought together several key consultations and engagement activities into one interactive event, which was funded through the Knowsley Youth Transformation Pilot.
Stalls at the event offered fun, interactive activities designed to encourage meaningful conversations and feedback. Young residents and professionals from different services discussed a range of topics including how the council engages with young people, local parks and green spaces, SEND services in the area, and more.
Cllr Sean Donnelly, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, who attended the event, reflected on the number of young officers involved and highlighted the importance of creating more opportunities for volunteering and working alongside young people, particularly those with care experience. This has been identified as an area for further exploration and action.
Local young people will have another opportunity to get involved this summer, when a follow-up event will be held to provide feedback on what has been done—and what is planned—because of the ideas and suggestions shared.
Organisers are hoping to build on the strong attendance and positive atmosphere from the first event, ensuring young people can see how their voices are helping to shape future decisions across Knowsley. The success of the event demonstrates Knowsley’s ongoing commitment to meaningful youth participation and ensuring young people remain at the heart of decision-making.