FIRST YOUTH CONFERENCE FOR CHESHIRE EAST COUNCIL

The first Cheshire East Youth Mayor Conference was held at Sandbach Town Hall on Wednesday June 2.

It involved the Cheshire East Council Youth Mayor team, the Cheshire East Youth Parliament and Connexions.

More than 40 young people attended, representing all areas and interests from across Cheshire East.

The highlight of the event was a Question Time session where several issues were raised by delegates to: Chief Executive Erika Wenzel; Cabinet member Councillor Hilda Gaddum; Service Director John Weeks, Senior Manager Fintan Bradley, Youth Mayor Chris Edwards; and Mandy Burrows Director of Inclusion for Connexions.

Some of the hot topics raised included fines from Police Community Support Officers, public transport, the trouble with potholes for new drivers, media perceptions and how Government spending cuts may affect young people.

Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for Schools and Families said: “They spoke passionately about issues that concerned them and it was important that we as a Council heard these first hand. It really demonstrated the range of their concerns.”

Chris Edwards, Cheshire East Youth Mayor said: “I think it’s important to get the views of those in my age group as we have concerns about public transport costs, leisure facilities and improving the area, just like everyone else.

“I also hope we can raise awareness of the great contribution young people make to society and reverse the negative media perception where we are often portrayed as troublemakers.”

Young people can take part in our Youth Survey so we can continue to collect more feedback about what you think about growing up in Cheshire East. Visit www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/youthmayor to take part.