The Liverpool Schools’ Parliament plays a critical role in the city’s commitment to listening to the voices of children and young people. This forum enables young people to have their say on what happens in Liverpool and hold the Council to account. This year, the LSP has been re-booted, and Cabinet Member for Employment, Educational Attainment and Skills Cllr Lila Bennett is thrilled to have held two sessions at the Town Hall for primary and secondary schools. The Lower House is for children aged seven to 11, while the Upper House is for young people aged 11-19.
For a local authority to offer the best services possible, the opinion of its residents is crucial, which includes children and young people. Though they lack access to the ballot box, young people should still have the ability to influence what happens in their city if their opinions are valued. Liverpool’s journey toward Unicef Child Friendly City (CFC) status highlights the importance of involving children in consultation, planning, and decision-making. The Liverpool Schools’ Parliament is an essential tool in making this a reality.
The LSP is running four special events this year that will be based on themes identified in the OxWell survey. The Council’s CFC team will also undertake other engagement work, such as priority areas of education and mental health. The success of this forum is down to its various contributors, including pupils and students who serve as school representatives, teachers who support young people, and Council teams. The LSP is considered an integral part of the committee process within the Council.
The Liverpool Schools’ Parliament is poised to go from strength to strength in 2024, showing the enduring value of Jeff Dunn’s idea, its passionate founder and director until his retirement in 2019. Jeff’s brainchild and unwavering commitment to ensuring that young people’s voices are heard continue to have an impact, proving to be a powerful legacy for this very special man
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