Youth Forum gives young people a voice

Members of Rochdale Youth Forum on a rock climbing exercise

Members of Rochdale Youth Forum took part in a three-day residential course in the Peak District aimed at building their confidence, improving their teamwork and bonding. Activities included rock-climbing, abseiling and caving during the day, before coming together at night to discuss the issues affecting them and possible solutions.

During these discussions, the teens talked about their desire to see local parks refurbished, Rochdale’s redevelopment plans, and setting up community training programmes to improve first aid skills and literacy levels.

The Youth Forum members aim to discuss issues affecting their local communities and work together to take action. The group will now meet frequently, and hope to work closely with the council, Rochdale’s communities, and voluntary groups to help achieve improvements in the town that benefit everyone.

Councillor Donna Martin, cabinet member for children, schools and families, said: “It is fantastic Rochdale’s young people have come together to actively engage with each other in a positive way about the issues they care about. Young people are our future, and thus, we always love to hear how they think things could be better.”

Youth Forums are also running in Middleton, Heywood & the Pennines. Membership of the forums is open to all young people who would like to contribute to improving the Borough of Rochdale. Any young people who would like to join, or who would like more information, can contact the Youth Service on 01706 924927.

To find out what activities are available across the borough visit:

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/events