Southend Youth Voice
Who we are
The Southend Youth Voice Team works to give children, young people, and families a voice. Although based in Children's Services, the team is connected to all parts of Southend-on-Sea City Council, and statutory and voluntary sector organisations in Southend. We want to make sure young people can share their views, be heard, and make a difference in Southend.
What we do
We offer several projects for children and young people’s voices to be heard on both a local and national level. This is achieved through focused projects and forums, consultations as well as a programme of fun events. We want to know what is important to children, young people and their families and make sure these views are heard and acted on by decision makers. The most important thing is that all activities are fun to be part of.
Who we work with
We work with children and young people, aged 0-18 (up to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) who live or go to school in the city. We also work with professionals to make sure they feel supported and have the tools to engage with young people.
How to get involved
We are developing lots more youth voice opportunities for children, young people and families. To find out more or to get involved please email youthvoice@southend.gov.uk.
Some of our projects
Southend Youth Council
For young people aged 11-18 (up to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) in the city to have a say over how their city is run. The Youth Council meets monthly to discuss the issues that affect young people in Southend. Meetings are planned and chaired by the Youth Mayor and Deputy Youth Mayor.
New members are always welcome. If you’d like to join, please email youthmayor@southend.gov.uk and follow us on Twitter @Sosyouthcouncil.
Children in Care Council
The Children in Care Council aims to improve the lives of children and young people in the care of Southend-on-Sea City Council. Young people can share their views, experiences and ideas and help make things better for children and young people in care. The Children in Care Council meets monthly, offers lots of fun activities and is for young people aged 10.
If you want to find out more or to get involved, please email CICC@southend.gov.uk.
UK Youth Parliament
We are a member of the British Youth Council (BYC) which organises and runs the UK Youth Parliament. Southend has one seat on the Youth Parliament and holds annual elections for young people aged 11 to 18 years. Members of Youth Parliament (MYP) are expected to work closely with the Southend Youth Council. Youth Parliament offers opportunities for those who have an interest in decision-making and in representing the views of young people on a National Level.
If you are interested in becoming a Member of Youth Parliament, please email youthvoice@southend.gov.uk.
Make Your Mark
This is the UK Youth Parliament’s annual ballot of young people. The purpose of the ballot to get young people from across the UK to determine which five topics the UK Youth Parliament will debate. Find out more in the Make Your Mark local report 2020.