Other

National Youth Agency: Councillor shadow scheme is inspiring local democracy

1 min read
Henry Tapp from the British Youth Council, one of the Youth of Today partners, outlines the success of the Local Councillor Shadowing Programme.

The ASDAN accredited Local Councillor Shadowing Programme now has over 40 councils signed up nationwide, with more set to get involved in the coming weeks.

The programme sees participants shadow their local representatives for 25 hours of activities in a period of up to six weeks, with a £150 bursary to cover travel and subsistence costs.

The scheme has been well received by participants with a large number subsequently enthused to take a more active role in local politics and community issues.

Commenting on the programme, one participant from East Riding said:

"What I am taking away from my experience is a new determination to take a more active role in local politics, a desire to continue to attend meetings as a member of the public so I am informed on local issues and the inspiration to peruse a career in politics."

To date, over 80 young people have completed the programme but there is still plenty of opportunity to get involved. To see if your council is participating contact us at www.theyouthoftoday.org.


More like this