Young people take chance to be heard

MORAY’S new Youth Voice initiative has been launched by young people in the area.

More than 40 young people aged 11-25 put themselves forward for election, ahead of an official launch of Moray Youth Voice at the Scottish Parliament early next year.

At the local event, held in Elgin last week, prospective candidates presented their manifestos, seeking to represent LGBTQI+, young carers, care experienced young people, disability, armed forces young people and more.

They spent the day discussing how they want to shape youth work, and spoke about their priorities for Scotland. Their views will be fed back to Youthlink Scotland as part of its youth work strategy.

Moray Council’s youth engagement team lead, Fiona Herd, said: "Our young people told us they didn’t feel they had any influence or control in issues that affect them. It was clear they need a mechanism to have their voice heard and actively participate in democracy and social change.

"The youth engagement team, along with other youth organisations including Elgin Youth Café, The Loft youth project in Keith, Police Scotland youth volunteers, Army Welfare and secondary schools encouraged young people to nominate themselves for election to Moray Youth Voice.

"The day itself was incredibly inspiring with so many fantastic presentations from young people who were so passionate and articulate about the things that matter to them and how they can make a change.

"It was a great privilege to be part of the day and we all look forward to working alongside Moray Youth Voice to make positive changes for young people in Moray."

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