Youngsters take over council chamber

Children and young people from across the East Riding took over the council chamber at County Hall in Beverley as part of Children’s Commissioner’s Takeover Day 2014.

The aim of the national event, led by the Children’s Commissioner for England, is to give young people the opportunity to become involved in debating and offer their opinions on key issues.

It is hoped to break down barriers between generations and encourage children’s active involvement in their communities.

Over 30 young people attended the event in Beverley, hosted by East Riding of Yorkshire Council. It included an opportunity for the young people to comment on the council’s priorities for 2015/16 and debate them in the council chamber.

Elected members with a wide range of knowledge of council services supported the event. Councillor Julie Abraham, the council’s portfolio holder for children, young people and education, said: “It is wonderful to see young people get so animated about the services provided by the council, and have the opportunity to use the council chamber as a platform to air their views.”

The council encourages young people to get involved in its youth forums. Details can be found here.