Topics included knife crime, gang violence, mental health support, regeneration, housing, and the need for youth spaces

Young people addressed a Haringey Council meeting this week to outline their own priorities for the borough.

Children and young people were invited to creatively express their ideas, concerns, and aspirations to help “foster a sense of empowerment and engagement among the next generation of leaders”.

Topics included knife crime, gang violence, mental health support, regeneration, housing, and the need for youth spaces and social activities, particularly for those with special educational needs (Send).

They also put forward proposals on how they think the council can help support their suggestions.

As part of the council’s youth participation strategy, it aims to further develop the borough’s youth panel, Elevated Youth Haringey, and explore the possibility of children and young people representing their peers at the UK Youth Parliament from 2026 to provide them with the opportunity to influence the decisions that impact their lives on a national level.

Danielle, an Elevated Youth Haringey member who addressed this week’s council meeting, said: “I hope my words encourage the council to think about how we can create a school system that supports every young person, no matter their challenges.

“Parents, youth workers and senior council officers from children’s services were present to support young people during the event. The evening concluded with a motion and speeches from councillors, emphasising their commitment to further develop the youth panel.”

Council leader Peray Ahmet said: “Collaboration between councillors and the youth panel is essential for shaping our borough.

“It’s crucial that we engage with residents of all ages, including our children and young people, to understand their needs. We aim to empower them to influence their environment and develop long-term, sustainable solutions that benefit both current and future generations.

“The future of Haringey truly lies in their hands.”

Find out more and get involved with Elevated Youth Haringey:
Visit haringey.gov.uk/children-and-families/local-offer/preparing-adulthood/elevatedyouthharingey

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