Teenagers drafted in to help shape council policies (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Young people needed to scrutinise Richmond Council services

6:00am Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News By Clare Buchanan

Young people have the chance to examine council services for their peers.

Richmond Council is looking for a team of 15 people aged between 16 to 20 to carry out inspections of services for young people.

The new youth associate team will work with the council on policies to ensure they reflect their needs.

Successful applicants will receive full training, will be expected to attend regular meetings, keep accurate records and evaluate their findings.

Participants will receive an AQA qualification, a financial allowance, ongoing support and training and a reference toward future employment.

Councillor Christine Percival, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “More young people than ever are now engaging in council services, with this year’s youth parliament and youth council elections seeing a huge rise in young people wanting to stand for election.

“This is now a good opportunity for other youngsters to be involved in the day-to-day design and shaping of our services and I hope that many will apply.”

Applications close on Tuesday, March 26. Visit richmond.gov.uk/youth_associates or email steve.curtis@richmond.gov.uk.