Local Democracy

Youth Forum

Launched in October 2001, the Barking and Dagenham Youth Forum is an opportunity for young people to have their say on local issues, make changes in their community and take responsibility for decisions that affect their lives.

The Youth Forum is made up of 13-19 year olds who are elected to represent all young people in the borough.

It deals with issues important to young people such as crime and safety youth facilities, health, education and equalities.

Members are required to commit to attend meetings, talk to those around them, bring those ideas to meetings, and listen, discuss, compromise and make a difference.

Links have been made with local decision makers (the 2 Members of Parliament, local councillors, council officers working in each department, local businesses and organisations and other youth groups) so that all issues are discussed/debated and addressed with the people who can make the difference.

It also means that we ask young people for their opinions on the work we are doing (for example in parks, and plans for the borough), so young people are able to have a say on how some of our budget is being spent.