Youth Opinion is v important at Groundwork

Groundwork Volunteers Dan Shepherd, Rosa McCannon, Scott Caudwell, Rachel Whelan, Erin Kirwan, Nadia Raza and Paul Jaggs.

Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale are to take on board the opinions of the youngsters with the launch of the v Panel project. 

The panel, made up of 16-25 year olds from the surrounding area, will have the opportunity to discuss upcoming Groundwork projects, give feedback on present activities and propose new projects for the future.

Laura Roden, v Project Manager at Groundwork, said: “Not only is it hugely beneficial for Groundwork to have young local residents provide feedback on the things we do in the area, the skills that can be gained by participating in the v Panel are extremely valuable. As well as gaining confidence and knowledge of how an environmental charity works there are also opportunities to learn project management and communication skills and work towards a v50 award.”

Some of the community projects Groundwork are involved in include Boarshaw Clough Project in Rochdale, the Derker Warden scheme, Jubilee environmental awareness and the Alt Green scheme. The projects focus primarily on environmental and sustainability issues and the emphasis of community participation. The v Panel will liaise with project managers to put their opinions across and offer their ideas for new initiatives.

Zoe Thorpe, v volunteer, said: “This project is excellent as it allows people in the local area to have their say. Sometimes the residents of an area can think of things that the project officers might not. I’ve learned lots of useful skills through my volunteering.”

The group will meet for a few hours each week to converse with Groundwork staff and also take part in some of the manual work that is carried out.

The v Panel is an on-going opportunity for young people in the area. The first meeting takes place on Friday 17 October, 11am at Groundwork Environmental Centre, Shaw Road, Higginshaw, Oldham. Anyone interested is encouraged to call Paul or Ash in the v department on 0161 624 1444 for more information on how to get involved.