Liverpool summit tackles youth identity

The two-day Portrait of a Nation Youth Summit, which took place in Liverpool, was organised by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Liverpool Culture Company. The young people called for the media to "stop slagging us off" as part of the debate, which aimed to explore their identity and their hopes for the future.

Comedian Richard Blackwood, who was part of the panel, said: "Unfortunately the media will always be interested in more negative stories but you've got to keep shouting about the positive."

Seventeen young ambassadors each representing their city joined 10 panellists, including poet Lemn Sissay and broadcaster Neil Buchanan, to debate the issues in front of their peers.

The summit was the result of a two-year campaign involving more than 3,000 young people. It also involved a showcase of dance, music, theatre and fashion.