Every young person has rights: We, as a representative council for 11-25 year olds, advocate for positive change and children’s rights across the city.
You may remember that at the end of last year, members of Cardiff Youth Council convened an assessment panel to go over grant applications for a social action grant scheme. The Young Changemakers scheme, which was a collaboration between Child Friendly Cardiff and Plan UK, were looking to fund groups of young people who had project ideas aimed at tackling a gender related issue. Some of our youth council members went through the applications and decided which projects they felt should receive funding.
Monday 29th April was a celebratory event for these projects. The first part of the day consisted of a spoken word workshop where the young people could express their experiences with gender in a creative way.
Professionals were then invited to the afternoon. The young people were able to showcase the work they had done on their projects through networking with relevant adults and presenting their key milestones. It was great to hear about the diverse range of projects!
With so many passionate people in the room, we wanted to use this opportunity to further showcase work that youth council members have been doing when it comes to gender. As a result, some members of Cardiff Youth Council’s Gender Equity Steering Group presented the CFC Gender Report. The report summarises the findings from all the gender projects that the youth council have worked on and provided recommendations based on the findings. The young people set the challenge to everyone in the room to consider what they can do, within their professional capacities, to implement the recommendations from the report.
To finish, we want to say a massive congratulations to all the young people who worked so hard to bring their project ideas to life to make Cardiff a more equitable city!
A collaborative training session, co-facilitated by Arthur who is a passionate Cardiff Youth Council member, was recently held for early years specialists who work in Flying Start nursery settings.
Arthur is an active Cardiff Youth Council member and Children’s Rights expert who has worked extensively with organisations who champion children’s rights, including but not limited to: UNICEF UK, Children in Wales, Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Child Friendly Cardiff.
This bespoke training aimed to integrate the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into nursery settings, with a particular emphasis on article 12 which outlines respecting the views of the child. Practical ways to ensure that even our youngest citizens feel their voices matter were introduced. Through the training delivery and activities, we wanted the attendees to feel empowered and leave feeling confident about how they would create environments where the thoughts and feelings of 2 and 3-year-olds are actively sought and valued.
Having a young person deliver this training was extremely powerful and attendees approached Arthur afterwards to share how inspiring it was to see a young person engage in this work. It highlighted the vital role young people can play in championing children’s rights but also sets a precedent for meaningful engagement with these rights in educational settings.
In a vibrant demonstration of youth engagement and democratic process, the Cardiff Youth Council (CYC) has successfully concluded its elections for the Members of the UK Youth Parliament (MYP). With two pivotal seats up for grabs, the election attracted a diverse group of ten dedicated CYC members, each aspiring to represent Cardiff’s youth on a national scale. The candidates were Ned Dong, End Hopkins, Tegan Griffiths, Ffion Corcoran, Emile Chapin, Morus Williams, Ryan Bestwick, Aoife Williams, Efa Thomas, and Megan O’Neill.
The election day was buzzing with anticipation, as each candidate took the stage to present their vision for the future of Cardiff’s youth. Their speeches covered a range of pressing issues, from mental health and educational reform to climate action and community engagement. Following the speeches, the floor was opened for questions, allowing CYC members to engage directly with the candidates, probing their policies and promises. This interactive session highlighted the candidates’ commitment and readiness to tackle the challenges facing their peers.
In an election characterised by a form of proportional representation, each CYC member was empowered to select their top three candidates. This voting system ensured a fair reflection of the council’s diverse preferences, highlighting the importance of every vote in shaping the outcome. The democratic spirit of the CYC shone through as members participated actively in this process, demonstrating the council’s commitment to inclusive and participatory governance.
The election culminated in the selection of Aoife Williams and Ffion Corcoran as the new MYPs representing Cardiff. Their campaigns, resonating with the aspirations and concerns of their peers, earned them the honour of serving on a platform where they can effect real change. Aoife and Ffion’s victories signify a new era of youth leadership in Cardiff, one that promises to advocate passionately for the rights and well-being of young people both locally and nationally.
As we welcome Aoife Williams and Ffion Corcoran into their new roles, we must also take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the outgoing MYPs, Zack Hellard and Shifa Shahzad. Zack and Shifa have been exemplary representatives of Cardiff’s youth, dedicating their tenure to advocating for change, inspiring their peers, and leaving an indelible mark on the council. Their commitment, passion, and achievements have set a high standard for youth leadership and have contributed significantly to the progress and empowerment of young people in Cardiff.
Chair of CYC, Mikaeel Moulani, says Zack and Shifa, your service as MYPs has been a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of youth voice. The Cardiff Youth Council and its members extend heartfelt thanks for your tireless work, dedication, and the positive impact you have made. As you pass the torch to Aoife and Ffion, know that your legacy will continue to inspire and guide the council’s endeavours. In conclusion, the CYC MYP elections have not only showcased the democratic values at the heart of the council but have also underscored the importance of youth participation in civic life. As Aoife Williams and Ffion Corcoran step into their new roles, the Cardiff Youth Council stands united in its mission to empower young people, drive change, and foster a community where every voice is heard and valued. Together, we look forward to the positive impact that our new MYPs will bring to Cardiff and beyond.
The Cardiff Youth Council (CYC) recently embarked on an collaboration with esteemed academics, Dr Hannah Littlecott from Bristol University and Dr Kelly Morgan from Cardiff University, signalling a step towards sustainable travel initiatives within Wales. This partnership revolves around a grant application aimed at evaluating a novel active travel intervention set to be implemented in a Welsh town this year, under the support of the Welsh Government.
Active travel, the practice of making journeys by physically active means, such as walking or cycling, instead of using motorised transport, is at the heart of this intervention. It seeks to not only improve public health and reduce environmental impact but also to enhance the overall quality of life for the community members.
A select group of CYC members, including Aoife Williams, Efa Thomas, Martha Lewis, Megan O’Neill, Rahma Mohamed, Rain Preece and Steffan Raynor Owen, were involved in a meeting with Hannah and Kelly. The purpose of this engagement was two-fold: to gather insights on the proposed data collection methods, ensuring it resonates with its core objectives and the community it aims to serve.
During the meeting, Hannah and Kelly outlined the scope of the grant application, detailing the envisioned active travel intervention and the anticipated outcomes. They delved into the types of data they plan to collect and the methodologies they intend to employ, seeking input from the CYC members on these critical aspects. The conversation fostered a rich exchange of ideas, highlighting the value of incorporating young people’s perspectives in shaping research that directly impacts their community.
The CYC members, bringing diverse viewpoints and fresh insights to the table, engaged actively in the discussion. The collaborative session underscored the potential of active travel initiatives to transform urban living spaces into more sustainable, health-promoting environments.
This engagement between CYC members and the academic team exemplifies a commendable model of youth involvement in civic matters, particularly in projects with far-reaching implications for public health and sustainability. By lending their voices to this initiative, the CYC members not only contributed to the shaping of a significant research project but also underscored the critical role of youth in driving positive change within their communities.
As the project progresses, the insights gathered from this meeting will undoubtedly play a role in refining the research approach and ensuring the active travel intervention is effectively tailored to meet the needs and expectations of the Welsh town’s residents. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the journey towards creating more active, healthy, and sustainable communities in Wales, demonstrating the power of partnership between academia, government, and youth councils.
The Cardiff Youth Council’s involvement in this study reflects their ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and active living. It showcases the potential of young people to influence policy and research, paving the way for more inclusive and effective community interventions. As the project moves forward, the CYC will continue to play a vital role in advocating for and contributing to the development of healthier, more sustainable communities across Wales.
In an ambitious move poised to reshape the urban landscape of Cardiff and the Vale, a project is underway, focusing on the pervasive influence of high fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) food and drink advertisements. This initiative is being developed by Dr. Kelly Morgan and Dr. Samantha Garay from DECIPHer, School of Social Sciences at Cardiff University and targets the reduction of HFSS advertising on council-owned and managed sites. With the aim of fostering a healthier community, this policy change is set to roll out next year, marking a significant shift in public health strategy.
The essence of this project is to understand public perceptions surrounding HFSS advertising, both in the lead-up to and following the policy implementation. A broad spectrum of voices, including primary and secondary school pupils, parents, and the wider public, will be sought to gauge the community’s stance and the potential impact of such a policy change.
While consulting with Cardiff Youth Council (CYC) on the planning phase, the research team is diligently crafting the study’s framework, with a strong emphasis on ensuring the relevance and appropriateness of the study materials for young participants. Integral to this phase is the consultation with CYC members, who have been instrumental in providing insights and feedback. These discussions have not only enriched the research approach but also ensured that the perspectives of young people are at the forefront of the project’s development.
The collaboration has seen multiple productive meetings between the research team and CYC members. These sessions have been crucial for refining the study plan, including the logic model guiding the research and the materials to be utilised. The feedback received from CYC members is being used to inform and potentially adjust the research plan, underscoring the value of youth input in shaping research that directly affects their environment.
As the project moves into its next phase, a follow-up meeting with CYC is scheduled for late spring or early summer. This will serve as an opportunity to review the progress made and fine-tune the approach before engaging with the broader community. This iterative process highlights the commitment to a participatory research model, where young people’s contributions play a pivotal role in steering the project toward its objectives. This partnership between Cardiff University and the CYC exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to public health and community engagement. By addressing the challenge of HFSS advertising through collaborative research and policy development, the project aims to lay the groundwork for a healthier Cardiff and Vale. As the initiative progresses, it stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives in public health initiatives.
On World Children’s Day, members of Cardiff Youth Council met with Cardiff Public Services Board (PSB), a group of Cardiff leaders and decisions makers who work to strengthen the city’s public services. The event, led by young people, aimed to inform PSB members about Cardiff Youth Council’s current priorities and have discussions about how these priorities can influence the board’s actions.
Cardiff Youth Council members getting ready for the event ahead
Cardiff Youth Council members, Ryan, Mikaeel and Jesslin hosted the event and started the day by introducing the Leader of Cardiff Council and PSB Chair, Cllr Huw Thomas, who set the scene with a speech highlighting the importance of peer led collaboration.
Between September 2022 and February 2023, Cardiff Youth Council delved into 2 robust sources: the Cardiff Council’s Child Friendly Cities (CFC) Survey and the School Healthy Research Network (SHRN) data. The 2022 CFC survey, participated in by 7,660 primary and secondary pupils, and the SHRN data with responses from over 11,000 secondary students, provided a rich tapestry of insights into the lives and aspirations of young people in Cardiff.
Based on this thorough data analysis, Cardiff Youth Council chose 3 priorities: Cost of living; Health and Wellbeing; Gender. Youth Council members created and delivered presentations based on these priorities to the PSB members, and then engaged in subsequent meaningful discussions about future joint working.
Cost of Living
In our presentation on the cost of living, we highlighted how financial pressures are increasingly impacting the youth of Cardiff. We spoke about the struggles our peers face, from concerns over rising educational expenses to the burden of basic necessities becoming unaffordable for many families. Our emphasis was on the need for innovative solutions to provide support concerning transport, school meal prices and finance education.
Health and Wellbeing
When discussing health and wellbeing, we stressed the need for more accessible mental health resources and supportive environments in schools and communities. We shared our vision on providing accessible, supportive and private ‘safe spaces’ for young people in schools, libraries, hubs and leisure centres.
Gender
Our presentation on gender revolved around the importance of gender equity and inclusivity in all aspects of life in Cardiff. We talked about the challenges faced by young people due to gender stereotypes and discrimination, and the impact this has on our ability to express ourselves and participate fully in society.
Reflections and Looking Forward
this day was not just about sharing Cardiff Youth Council’s views; it was a validation of their role in shaping Cardiff’s future. It reaffirmed our belief that young people’s opinions are valuable and necessary for creating a vibrant, inclusive city.
Cardiff Youth Council are more motivated than ever to continue this journey of advocacy and change!
Two members from the Cardiff Youth Council recently made their voices heard at the UK Youth Parliament (UKMYP) sitting in the House of Commons. This important event provided them a platform to discuss national food-related issues affecting young people.
The Core Topics
The debate focused on five key topics: Holiday Hunger, Quality of Food, Standardisation, Financing and Funding, and Additional Pricing. These issues directly impact the daily lives of young people in the UK.
Cardiff’s Proud Representation
Our Cardiff Youth Council representatives, Shifa and Zack, both actively engaged in the debate, with Shifa also playing a pivotal role as a debate lead, highlighting her leadership skills and passion. This involvement underscores the importance of youth participation in shaping policies.
Making a Difference
The UKMYP’s vote on a motion to take forward marked a significant step in advocating for youth-centric policies. Our representatives’ active participation exemplified Cardiff’s commitment to empowering young voices.
Celebrating Youth Leadership
This event was a testament to the capabilities of young people in Cardiff, showcasing their ability to influence and lead on major platforms. As Cardiff continues to uphold its status as a UNICEF accredited Child Friendly City, such involvement is crucial in ensuring the rights of all children in our city.
In line with Cardiff’s status as the UK’s first UNICEF accredited “Child Friendly City,” a great Debatemate tournament recently took place. The event engaged students from Cardiff Youth Council (CYC), Willows High School and Cardiff West Community High School in debates on societal issues, with a focus on gender equity. The pinnacle of this two-day affair was a spirited final debate on the motion: “This house would impose stricter measures against content that perpetuates gender stereotypes on social media platforms.” The occasion was further elevated by insights from special guests Nikki Giant and Sabiha Azad.
The Essence of Debatemate:
A forerunner in youth development, Debatemate aims to cultivate skills like effective communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. By fostering an environment for robust debate, students gain a more nuanced understanding of complex societal issues.
Who Stood on the Podium:
Proposition: Members Ffion, Aoife, and Malo represented CYC and Gwion represented Willows High School. Their articulate arguments underscored the youth council’s ongoing efforts to empower local youth.
Opposition: Students Fatima, Franklyn, Pamela and Jessica, from Willows High School exemplified the spirit of inquiry and debate nurtured within the educational system of Cardiff.
The Central Theme: Gender Equity:
All debates leading up to the final focused on various aspects of gender equity, culminating in the decisive final motion. The conversations around this theme were greatly enriched by our special guests, Nikki Giant and Sabiha Azad, who represented opposing views in the final debate.
Nikki Giant: A member of the Advisory Panel for the Children’s Commissioner for Wales and founder of The Girl Lab, Nikki supported the proposition. Her experience added a layer of gravitas to the conversation.
Sabiha Azad: A Cardiff-based Change Maker with a focus on gender inequality, Sabiha took the opposition’s side. Her perspectives added complexity to the arguments, particularly with her background in anti-racism work and representation for Women Against Violence Europe.
A Riveting Finale:
The final debate was a high-stakes exchange of ideas, backed by research and ethical considerations. Nikki Giant, in alignment with the proposition, advocated for imposing stricter measures against gender-stereotypical content on social media. On the other side, Sabiha Azad, along with the opposition panel, offered a compelling counterargument questioning the implications of such measures.
The audience was gripped as Ffion, Aoife, Gwion and Malo from proposition and Fatima, Franklyn, Pamela and Jessica from the opposition went head-to-head. Both sides presented compelling arguments, making it a memorable finale that left a lasting impression on all attendees.
Proposition
The proposition proposed that stricter measures should be imposed because of the following reasons:
Promotion of Equality: Stricter measures could help to challenge and change harmful gender stereotypes, promoting greater equality.
Protection of Vulnerable Individuals: Stricter measures can help protect vulnerable individuals, particularly children and young people, from being exposed to harmful content that could influence their views and attitudes towards gender.
Responsibility of Platforms: Social media platforms have a responsibility to ensure that their content does not perpetuate harmful stereotypes or discrimination. Stricter measures could hold platforms accountable for the content they allow to be shared.
Opposition
The opposition didn’t disagree that gender stereotyping is bad, but they said stricter measures could have the following negative effects:
Freedom of Speech: Imposing stricter measures could be seen as a limitation on freedom of speech, as individuals may be censored or restricted from expressing their views.
Subjectivity: Determining what content perpetuates gender stereotypes can be subjective and open to interpretation. Stricter measures could result in the censorship of content that may not necessarily be harmful.
Critical thinking: Diminish people’s choice and ability to be able to critically think about information they may see on social media platforms.
They suggested that there should be other ways to improve/eliminate gender stereotyping through education.
What stood out?
Participants were split up into 5 groups and asked what subjects they covered over the 2 days stood out to them and what they think the council should prioritise for consideration. Each group were asked to come up with 3 subjects each. These were gathered in and then the whole group was asked to rank the subjects put forward, the following graph was the result:
Implications and Future Directions:
The event served as a microcosm for how discourse around complex issues like gender equity can be incorporated into the educational landscape. It offered valuable insights for the local authority on ways to adopt a children’s rights approach to education and governance.
CYC have three priorities that they are working on to improve outcomes and services to all children and young people across the city.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Cost of Living
Gender Equity
As part of the Gender Equity work CYC will incorporate the findings from the Debatemate Final into their thinking when trying to make these improvements.
Conclusion:
The Debatemate tournament was more than a competition; it was an enactment of Cardiff’s commitment to children’s rights and equitable society. It showcased how constructive dialogue, fostered by collaboration between educational institutions and experts, can pave the way for positive social change.
In a world often fraught with disagreement, Cardiff’s youth have shown us that nuanced debate is not a lost art but a vital tool in navigating our shared future.
Child Friendly Cardiff have partnered with Plan UK (Wales) to launch a social action grant scheme for young people aged 13-25. Up to £1,000 in grants are available for projects aiming to create a gender equal Cardiff.
Yesterday, a young person assessment panel convened to assess the grant applications and discuss which project ideas they felt should receive the funding. It was an inspiring evening listening to project ideas led by young people who are passionate about improving circumstances in Cardiff.
The successful projects will be informed soon and will begin their journey of bringing their ideas to life. We can’t wait to hear about how the projects get on and the impact they are having!
In July, members of Cardiff Youth Council were involved in a process called Legislative Theatre. The process involved young people identifying issues relating to gender and showcasing these in a set of scenes. The scenes were then performed to senior decision makers and professionals who worked collaboratively with the young people to find resolutions to the issues identified.
Dawn Mitchell-Williams, the Head of Physical Activity and Health at Cardiff Met Sport was one of the audience members and, met with some of the young people last night to discuss the issues that they raised.
It was a great meeting of discussion about sport and how gender can impact young people’s experiences of being active.
Cardiff Youth Council are excited about the relationship being developed with Cardiff Met Sport and look forward to future collaborations!
