Youth voice panel is underway

Earlier this month nine young members from across London and South East England attended a kick off meeting to discuss and develop plans for the region’s new youth voice panel.

The goal of the panel is to ensure that girl voice is heard and that ideas and lived experiences of girls and young women shape all that the region does for its members.

The event was facilitated by our deputy chief commissioner Hannah Roberts (who was part of the last region youth steering group), along with assistant chief commissioner for 14-30 Vicky Cunningham and region lead volunteer for insights Izzy Attwood.

Attendees discussed how they would like the panel to work and what they would like to influence, from partnerships to badges and events. Discussion throughout the day was lively and thoughtful with attendees speaking about their own experiences as young members and volunteers.

The panel was passionate when discussing growth and retention, wanting to encourage young members to continue in guiding into adulthood, and ensuring greater consistency in experience across the region. Communication was a key topic, especially given next year’s social media ban. The group told us that young members often miss opportunities because information goes to parents, leaders or local contacts and isn't shared directly with them. That's why we've included a reminder about email permissions for members aged 14+ in Spotlight this week.

The group was clear about what they think success for the panel looks like and the region team is excited to help them achieve it. While some members of the panel were unable to make the kick off meeting, we look forward to bringing everyone together and help them to shape the region’s strategic plans.

Look out for regular updates on the panel’s activities and the decisions they help shape. We are committed to giving young members an audience that listens, at every level of the region team. The insights from this group will lead to real, tangible impact, helping us become more girl-led than ever.