Inaugural meeting of East Suffolk’s new Youth Council

Posted by on 13 December 2024 | Comments

An innovative new council entirely comprising young people from across East Suffolk has met for the first time, ensuring the ideas and concerns of younger people are heard.

Earlier this autumn, thirty-two young people from up and down East Suffolk were elected to the new East Suffolk Youth Council, an innovative initiative designed to engage young people in politics and enable them to influence decisions affecting their lives and communities.

Following an induction day on Monday 18 November at which the new Youth Councillors were 'sworn in', the first Youth Council meeting took place at Riverside in Lowestoft on Monday 9 December.

As their first item of business, the Youth Councillors elected a Chair and Vice-Chair. Both positions were hotly contested, but after multiple nominations, speeches and votes, a Chair was elected from St Felix School in Reydon, and a Vice-Chair from Thomas Mills High School in Framlingham.

The Youth Council then turned to their first motion, in which they called upon East Suffolk Council to devote greater resources and attention to youth safety and well-being. With the newly elected Chair presiding ably over discussions, the Youth Councillors emphasised the impacts of social media and the Covid-19 pandemic upon youth, and the need for improved youth activities, services and support.

The Youth Council carried their motion unanimously, and East Suffolk Council must now consider their views. At their November Full Council meeting, elected Members unanimously agreed that they would discuss any valid motion duly passed by the Youth Council at their next Full Council meeting.

Cllr Anthony Speca, Chair of East Suffolk Council, said: "The Youth Council's unanimous vote on their first motion was an emotional and historic moment. For the first time, the youth of East Suffolk are really setting the agenda. They stepped up, got elected, decided their own priorities, and made their voice heard. They've conducted themselves with such professionalism that they're an example not only to their peers, but to me and my fellow Councillors. I couldn't be more proud.

"The Youth Council is not just a token gesture. They're a real part of our local democracy, with the power to influence East Suffolk Council discussions and to drive positive change. Their first motion is a big step-but it's also just their first step. I'm excited to work with our new Youth Councillors, and I can't wait to see what else they bring to our attention."