It is a great honour, and with much enthusiasm, that I introduce the Participation and Engagement Strategy for Cumberland Council. It is so much more than the scoping of ideas or aspirations, but an important and clear commitment that the voices of young people in Cumberland will be listened to with respect and acted upon. It is an investment in our voice and potential, building a future that all young people will be leading, contributing to, and thriving in.
Being a young person, I know the challenges we go through and at the same time the hopes and dreams, which drive us forward. Our generation is an ocean of potential, creative and fired up for a meaningful change in everything that surrounds us. To realize this potential, however, we need systems and opportunities that would afford us the chance to collaborate with the decision-makers toward the betterment of our communities.
This is a bold step in the right direction. It offers a route map for meaningful engagement, ensuring not only that young people are consulted but also that they drive the policies and decisions affecting their future. It reflects a vision whereby young people are valued as equals in the task of building a stronger, more inclusive Cumberland.
As a youth parliament member, this plan that I wholeheartedly endorse presents an excellent opportunity, which I would encourage all the children and young people across Cumberland to rise to. We can make these plans real and the difference we could bring in would be permanent. Let’s work hand-in-hand towards a rich legacy of empowerment, collaboration, and progress that would live in history with pride for years to come.
Bobby Forbes.
Youth Parliament Member for Cumberland.