DOZENS of young people from across the county have begun their roles as newly elected representatives on the Wiltshire Youth Council.

The first event of the new term brought together 41 youth councillors who were elected earlier this year by students from 13 schools and one college across the county.

The gathering marked the start of their two-year terms representing the views of young people in discussions with Wiltshire Council and partner organisations.

At the event, the councillors met leaders, celebrated their election and began setting out the priorities they want to champion for young people in Wiltshire.

The youth councillors will meet regularly with councillors and cabinet members, review services that affect young people and gather feedback from their peers to help shape decision-making.

They will also take part in monthly full youth council meetings, where they will debate issues and develop proposals on topics important to young people.

Training will be provided to help them build skills such as public speaking, youth inspections and presenting ideas to decision-makers.

Alongside the youth councillors, the group includes several Special Advisors – young people who help ensure the views of under-represented groups are heard.

These roles include representing the perspectives of young carers, LGBTQ+ young people and those from military families.

During the launch event, a head secretary and deputy were appointed to help lead the council, alongside three Members of Youth Parliament and their deputies who will represent Wiltshire nationally.

Leader of Wiltshire Council Cllr Ian Thorn congratulated those elected.

“Young people bring insight, challenge and fresh ideas to the decisions we make as a council,” he said.

“The Youth Council elections give young people a real opportunity to choose representatives who will speak up on their behalf and help shape priorities and services across Wiltshire.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who has been elected and thank all those who took part in the elections.”

Cullin, who was appointed head secretary, said: “Having been acclimatised to councils in the school setting, I felt it was very intriguing to collaborate with other individuals within Wiltshire, sharing our ideas on how to cater to the desires of the youth.

“Furthermore, I enjoyed listening to the words of highly-ambitioned people… the bravery on show to express their passion for the better of the young people of Wiltshire fills me with hope that our council can create great change.”