Liverpool City Council has formed a group of young people, known as ‘Young Inspectors’, to ensure youth organisations are working towards the betterment of young people, and they’re looking to add more people to their project. Their responsibilities include giving advice on whether provisions are safe, and whether organisations are doing their part in prioritising and protecting young people.
This initiative is part of the Council’s ambition to become a UNICEF Child Friendly City by 2028. Once the Young Inspectors receive training, they assess projects in a number of ways, including taking part in mystery shopping, interviewing focus groups and attending youth centres and events. They then report back to service users with their findings.
When she was just nine, Sha-rae joined the team of Young Inspectors, and has now been one for almost eight years. She says that it has allowed her to be involved in important decisions, build confidence, make new friends, and help shape policies in her community.
Councillor Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Service, spoke about the Young Inspectors’ valuable contribution: “It is vital that we listen to our young people and that their voices are at the heart of our decision making. The contribution our Young Inspectors make is invaluable, and I would encourage as many people as possible to sign up to this amazing initiative.”
The Young Inspectors’ Recruitment Road Trip is coming to a youth centre near you. The events are open to anyone between the ages of 11 and 19, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities. The roadshow will take place on Wednesdays 8th and 15th May, as well as Thursday 16th. Anyone who becomes a Young Inspector will receive full support, training and a wealth of opportunities. To learn more, please email YouthParticipationNetwork@liverpool.gov.uk
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