Respect for young people, personal safety, preventing vandalism, the environment and graffiti art were some of the key issues raised by young people in Denbighshire at a special Big Question debate to mark National Youth Work Week.
Over 50 young people got involved in the event at Theatr Elwy, St Asaph where they were given the chance to question members of the Police Authority, Children Commissioners Office, Youth Justice and Youth Magistrates courts. The event was arranged by Conwy and Denbighshire Youth Services and the police.
Over 6,000 young people across the county were informed about youth service activities and partnership work with the Urdd and Menter Iaith during roadshows that visited secondary schools during the week.
Young people were informed about local youth activities in their communities and organisers took the opportunity to highlight the youth service’s commitment to encouraging young people to engage in youth activity after school and the Welsh language.
The week was also about celebrating young people’s achievements and 170 young people attended a celebration night in Prestatyn where they received Duke of Edinburgh, Open College Network, Youth University and Youth Service appreciation certificates.
The week’s activities culminated in a band night at the Royal International Pavilion, Llangollen. This event marked the start of joint working between Menter Iaith and the youth service to promote young people’s involvement in making music and performing for others through youth events.
Roger Ellerton, Principal Youth and Community Officer, said: “The week’s events proved to be a great success. We had a terrific response from the young people and they showed real passion in the Big Question debate.
“The events were about promoting the work that Denbighshire Youth Services do in our communities and also an opportunity to show how we work with our partners to promote activities and consult with young people.
“The week’s success and feedback will lead to even more work with young people in Denbighshire over the coming months.”
