NALC event champions youth engagement in local governance
On 13 December 2024, we concluded our last online event of the year by encouraging young people to become local councillors. The panel featured the head of quality and standards Andy Lloyd and young reviewer Charlie McCarthy of the National Youth Agency (NYA), the social media lead for My Life My Say Remi Olukun, and Billericay Town Council clerk Deborah Tonkiss.
Andy Lloyd highlighted the vital role of youth workers in fostering young voices in local decision-making. "The NYA calls for greater support for local youth work, with youth workers embedded in communities to engage young people, address their concerns, and ensure their voices are heard and acted upon", he said. Andy Lloyd advocated for inclusive and representative youth councils to empower the next generation of leaders.
Charlie McCarthy shared how participating in NYA's peer review program has equipped him to champion youth perspectives. "Being part of the NYA's peer review program has inspired me to engage deeply with my community. It's about reporting young voices, amplifying their views to local councils, and pushing for visible changes in youth provision", he explained, emphasising the importance of connecting directly with young people to drive meaningful change.
Remi Olukun presented innovative ways to bridge the gap between young people in politics, including Democracy Cafes and the social media campaign Give an X, which registered nearly 500,000 young voters. He highlighted the need to meet young people where they are, using influencers and creative platforms to make politics relatable. "Engagement starts by breaking down barriers and making politics something young people see themselves in", he said.
Deborah Tonkiss shared how Billericay Town Council's Youth Town Council empowers young residents through volunteering, events, and initiatives such as the Billericay Youth Safety Booklet. She addressed challenges like post-pandemic social anxiety, emphasising the importance of building confidence and practical skills. "Involving young people in community initiatives helps them see their value in local governance", she said.
