Students from Mirehouse and Corkickle have joined forces to shape the future of activities and services in their communities.
Supported by the Well Whitehaven Project, 30 pupils from Whitehaven Academy set out their aspirations for services, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jaq Cardy, member of the Well Whitehaven panel, said: “The young people who attended the sessions were really engaging and came up with many ideas.
“A common theme across the groups was a big community event to bring everyone together.
“The sessions also highlighted how much young people care about their community.
“This group and many other young people want to be part of the solution to problems, working together to make the Well Whitehaven area a place to be proud of.”
Some of the issues highlighted by the students were access to cultural activities and musical instruments, trips with family and friends, community support around mental health and more social activities.
Emma Williamson, social inclusion and community resilience team leader, said: “It is really important that young people have a say in the decisions, services and projects that are delivered in their community.
“By involving young people in the creation of community-based projects, they are more likely to feel a sense of ownership for the assets in their community and get involved in what’s on offer.”
The workshops were the first of many sessions which have set out to give a voice to young people and look at the role they can play in the future of public and community services.
Well Whitehaven is a project aimed at improving the lives of those living in the Mirehouse and Corkickle communities.
For more information, contact Emma Williamson by email at [email protected] or on 01946 598485.