Cumbrian teens are urged to have their say on climate change by joining a North West network or attending a conference next month.
Cumbria currently only has one representative in the North West Net Zero Youth Network, which is organising a conference led by young people being held at Salford University on Saturday November 25.
Hannah Wright, 19, who has been part of the network for the past year is one of 15 young people currently designing and shaping the conference that will discuss topics including renewable energy, green jobs, and the environment.
Hannah said: “I joined the network because I am passionate about climate change and wanted my voice to be heard. I feel angry and upset that our government continues to focus on short term economic gains instead of long-term environmental benefits and continues to make promises that aren’t met with action.
“By being part of the network, I’m able to focus on my passion for green spaces and do something to help create a better climate. We’ve created a report on young people’s concerns about green spaces which we presented to metro majors in the North West region. And we have been in discussion with decision makers to try and get young people’s voices heard.
“I’m enjoying being part of the network and we’re busy planning the conference. I’ve been able to learn about how to create workshops, plan a large event and I’m looking forward to meeting people with the same passion as me.”
Anyone wanting to join the network will be asked to join weekly online meetings with existing members planning the conference and then attend the conference.
Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership is supporting the network to encourage young people in the county to have a greater voice on climate issues. As such they will cover conference travel costs for new network members from the county.
Anyone interested in joining or finding out more should contact Lucy or Sarah at Youth Focus on 01744 810 838 or email l.laverty@youthfocusnw.org.uk
Free places are also available to attend the conference which is open to any young person accompanied on by an adult/youth worker/leader as well as youth groups and organisations.
