Schoolgirl chosen as Government adviser

NATIONAL role: Radclyffe’s Elin Franklin

Elin, 15, beats 150 hopefuls to job
RADCLYFFE School pupil Elin Franklin has become a Government adviser on disability and special educational needs (SEN) reform.

The 15 year old, from Watersheddings, beat more than 150 applicants to be chosen as one of 16 members of the Young People’s Advisory Group — and the only one from Greater Manchester.

It will advise ministers and civil servants on changes to services for children with SEN and disabilities and their families.

Elin, who has cerebral palsy, travelled to Westminster last week for a day of interviews and events to set up the group.

She said: “Going to London was a whole new experience. I’d never been before so I really enjoyed it.

“We had the chance to put our opinions over about changes that are planned I’m looking forward to getting started.”

The SEN and Disability Green Paper was published last year and the group will provide expertise, feedback and advice. Elin will also help local young people have a say.