Young people join decision-makers

OLDHAM Youth Council is the first in the country to be recognised with constitutional rights.

The historic move means youth councillors are now able to have a greater say in the decision-making process and influence the direction Oldham wants to take.

Full council meetings now have a dedicated 20-minute section in which the youth council can make presentations or pose resolutions and motions on issues of importance to young people.

The decision was approved by Oldham Council in July and the youth members last night attended their first full-council meeting, where they presented their priorities for the next two years.

They included a campaign for gum drop bins, to combat the blight of chewing gum.

As the Chronicle reported yesterday, the bins — made of recycled chewing gum — would be positioned around town and district centres. The call was officially noted by the council.

The Youth Mayor role has also been recognised within the constitution and supported by the Mayoral team.

Members will also be involved in influencing budgets and commissioning of children and young people’s services.