Somerset Youth Forum is calling for young people with ideas and enthusiasm to join their group, offering a platform for young people to influence local policy and services in the region.

The forum aims to challenge and influence change alongside Somerset Council, the Police, and Public Health to improve services and support received by young people in the area.

The forum provides a space for young people aged between 11 and 18 years old (or up to 24 years old for young people with Special Education Needs and/or Disabilities) to be heard, make a difference and contribute to the development of a fairer and more ambitious Somerset.

The group meets termly on Zoom after the school and college day finishes to discuss a range of topics including mental health, education, equality, climate, safety, and transport. Members of the forum have the opportunity to develop their leadership and communication skills, boosting their confidence, knowledge, and future employment prospects.

Cllr Tessa Munt, Somerset Council's Executive Member for Children and Families, commented, "Listening to the voices of our young people is essential to helping us create a fairer, ambitious Somerset. The Forum always welcomes new members, because the more young voices are heard, the more my colleagues and I can understand what young people want and then work to shape our services and policies to meet their needs."

For those interested in taking part, one of the forum's members described their experience as "really exciting and fun" and felt like they were making a change by being part of the community. All backgrounds, experiences, and abilities are welcome, and the forum encourages young people to make a positive impact in their com