The Lambourn Youth Council (LYC), set to launch in January 2025, will provide a platform for young people aged 11 to 17 in the parish of Lambourn, West Berkshire, to voice their opinions and influence decisions that shape their community. Designed to mirror the structure of a parish council, the initiative will empower young residents to engage in local democratic processes, addressing issues such as youth facilities, environmental sustainability, public safety, and community cleanliness.
The LYC has been enabled by a £9,000 grant from the SNG #iwill Fund. Created in 2022, the #iwill Fund is a £66 million initiative funded jointly by The National Lottery Community Fund and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). SNG, acting as a match funder, awards grants on behalf of the #iwill Fund, facilitating projects that enable young people to participate in meaningful social action. Christian Noll, Director of Lambourn Junction Community Interest Company (CIC), which oversees the LYC, expressed gratitude for the funding, stating, “This funding is a game-changer for our community. It ensures our youth have the tools and opportunities they need to shape the future of Lambourn. We are deeply grateful to the SNG #iwill Fund and our partners who have supported us every step of the way.”
The project has also gained significant local support from Lambourn Parish Council, Berkshire Youth, West Berkshire Councillor Howard Woollaston, and Lee Dillon, Member of Parliament for Newbury. Their backing highlights the importance of investing in the next generation as essential contributors to the community.
The Lambourn Youth Council will provide a structured and inclusive environment where young people can deliberate on matters of importance to them and their peers. These discussions will range from tackling environmental concerns and improving public safety to fostering civic responsibility and mental well-being. In addition, the council will encourage young members to develop leadership, governance, and decision-making skills, enabling them to participate actively in community life.
Regular monthly meetings will feature a formal structure but maintain a youth-friendly and engaging atmosphere, complete with pizza and refreshments to foster a sense of camaraderie. Guest speakers, including local government representatives, members of parliament, and other community leaders, will be invited to share insights on topics of interest. While the council will be led by its young members, an appointed clerk will provide procedural guidance, ensuring smooth operations without influencing decisions.
The benefits of the Lambourn Youth Council extend beyond its members, as it aims to foster greater community engagement and pride among Lambourn’s younger residents. It will serve as a vital channel for ensuring that the voices of youth are heard and considered in local decision-making processes. Participants will also gain valuable skills in public speaking, project management, and problem-solving, which can be logged as community service hours for awards such as the Duke of Edinburgh.
Under the stewardship of Lambourn Junction CIC, the LYC represents a significant step toward a more inclusive and responsive Lambourn for young people. By providing a forum for young people to influence decisions and address the issues that matter to them, the council aims to create a lasting impact on the well-being and development of the parish. This initiative will not only amplify the voices of Lambourn’s youth but also nurture a sense of responsibility and leadership, ensuring a brighter future for the entire community.
