Introduction
The Lambourn Youth Council (LYC) is proposed as a formal body composed of young
people aged between 11 and 17, representing the voices of the younger generation in
the parish of Lambourn, West Berkshire. This initiative will give young people the
opportunity to engage in local democratic processes and participate in meaningful
discussions that directly impact their community. Modelled on the structure of a parish
council, the Lambourn Youth Council will create a space where youth can deliberate on
issues relevant to them, such as youth provision, facilities, environmental concerns,
public safety, crime, and the cleanliness of the local environment.
Purpose
The primary aim of the Lambourn Youth Council is to provide young people with a
platform to:
Discuss topics relevant to their lives and surroundings, including:
- Youth provision and recreational opportunities
- Environmental sustainability and protection of green spaces
- Public safety, addressing issues such as drugs, crime, and antisocial behaviour
- Community cleanliness, with a focus on reducing litter and promoting civic
responsibility
- Identify, plan and execute well-being and mental health projects for the young people
of Lambourn. - Empower young people to actively engage in the democratic process, developing a
deeper understanding of governance and decision-making. - Amplify the voices of young people, ensuring their concerns are heard by key
stakeholders such as local government representatives and community organisations. - Foster leadership skills, civic engagement, and a sense of responsibility in young
individuals by involving them in addressing real and vital issues aUecting Lambourn.
Participants will be able to record hours as community service for awards such as Duke
of Edinburgh.
Structure
The council will consist of young people aged 11 to 17, who will be drawn from across
the parish of Lambourn through an open nomination or election process. Regular
meetings will be held in a structured, formal format, modelled on that of a parish
council. Key features of the council’s structure include:
- Council Members: Young people will be elected or selected to represent their peers
and engage in discussions and decision-making. - Meetings: Regular meetings will be convened to discuss predetermined agendas that
reflect the interests and concerns of the youth. The meetings will take place once per
month in the early evening (6pm?). The format is informal with an emphasis on fun and
discussion with pizza and non-alcoholic drinks available. - Speakers and Engagement: The council will invite guest speakers, including the local
Member of Parliament, representatives from West Berkshire Council, Lambourn Parish
Council, and other relevant organisations, to speak on specific topics of interest. - Clerk: An adult clerk will be appointed to oversee procedural matters, providing
guidance on the correct processes and procedures. However, the clerk will not
participate in discussions or decision-making, ensuring that the council remains youthled.
Benefits to the Community - Giving a Voice to Youth: The council will ensure that the opinions and ideas of young
people are heard and considered in local decision-making processes. - Skill Development: Participants will gain valuable experience in leadership, public
speaking, project management, and problem-solving. In addition, they will learn about
the workings of local democracy, governance, and civic responsibility. - Improving Local Services: The council’s discussions will identify key areas of concern,
allowing the local government and organisations like the Parish Council, West Berkshire
Council, Lambourn Junction Community Interest Company (CIC) to respond more
effectively to the needs of young people in the area. - Increased Community Engagement: By engaging youth in local governance, the
Lambourn Youth Council will foster a stronger sense of belonging and community pride
among younger residents.
Governance and Funding
The Lambourn Youth Council will operate under the auspices of the Lambourn Junction
Community Interest Company (CIC), ensuring that it is formally supported and able to
benefit from the CIC’s existing structures and networks. The LJCIC will seek funding
through grant aid, with potential funding sources including local government grants,
charitable foundations, and sponsorship from businesses or community partners.
The establishment of the Lambourn Youth Council will empower the next generation to
participate in local democracy and address the issues that matter most to them. By
providing a structured, inclusive, and youth-led forum for discussion, the council will
not only amplify the voices of young people but also contribute to the overall wellbeing
and development of the community of Lambourn. Through active engagement, the
Lambourn Youth Council will nurture a sense of responsibility, belonging, and
leadership among its members, ensuring a brighter future for the parish.
This project will have a lasting impact, both in giving young people a voice and in
creating a more inclusive, responsive, and vibrant Lambourn for all residents.
Christian Noll