NALC event showcases innovative approaches to youth involvement
Our latest event, held on 25 February 2026, offered attendees expert guidance on engaging with future leaders in their communities. The event explored successful practices from parish and town councils and organisations that have effectively connected with younger generations, with attendees learning practical, innovative methods to increase youth participation in community life.
Expert speakers included Remi Olokun, social media lead at My Life My Say; Jo Brook, clerk at Cottenham Parish Council; and Andy Jeffery, clerk at Godalming Town Council. Together, they shared insights on effective youth engagement, increasing involvement in council projects and securing buy-in for community development initiatives.
Remi Olokun opened the event by outlining My Life My Say's experience of engaging young people in democratic processes. He emphasised the unique role parish and town councils can play in re-energising young people's interest in politics and civic life. He said, "The solution lies very much at the local level, and [parish and town] councils have a unique opportunity to address the apathy young people face". He highlighted initiatives such as Democracy Cafés, which create informal spaces for young people to discuss the issues affecting them without feeling they are entering formal political territory, encouraging councils to think creatively about their engagement methods.
Jo Brook then shared how Cottenham Parish Council has strengthened engagement with young people through its youth council. Recruitment was carried out through local schools, scout groups and directly with young people aged 10–16, resulting in a group full of enthusiasm and ideas. The youth council led a major project to create a sensory garden, gaining first-hand experience of applying for grants and working with external partners. Reflecting on the success of the initiative, she stressed the importance of connecting with young people in ways that resonate with them, saying, "Find those little ways in, and adapt your behaviour and methods accordingly."
Andy Jeffery discussed Godalming Town Council's journey to becoming a more youthful and representative council. The transformation began with a large-scale community health check and a neighbourhood plan, resulting in a clear, professional vision for the town. This shift encouraged broader community participation and led to the election of 16 working-age councillors, including several in their 20s and 30s. These younger councillors have since delivered an expanded youth service, environmental improvements and a range of practical community projects. He noted that young adults are drawn to councils when they see a compelling purpose, stating, "People care deeply if they have something to care about." A professional approach to communication, he added, can fundamentally change who feels able to step forward.
The event concluded with a Q&A, which explored practical models for incorporating young people into local decision-making and strategies for attracting more young adults to stand for election. The message from the event was clear that parish and town councils can inspire and empower young people by offering a strong, meaningful vision for their community, one they can see themselves shaping.
