Young people in Dorset got to step into the roles of key decision makers, empowering them to get their voices heard. 

Between June 24 and July 5, 28 young people had the opportunity to "takeover" some of the top roles and responsibilities at Dorset Council.

This was part of a national campaign that allows young people to experience the workplace, inform decisions and have their voices heard.  

Young people shared their thoughts on key campaigns and proposals and their feedback will go on to help shape the support that is available to Dorset’s children and families. 

The activities the young people undertook ranged from chairing key meetings, being part of the interview panel for the Youth Voice team, sitting on the Youth Grant Panel, and presenting at the education conference and the Strategic Alliance conference to an audience of approximately 200 people. 

Their presentation at the conferences focused on health and wellbeing for young people - a topic of immense importance to young people in the county with it being voted for in the Make Your Mark campaign, that took place in Dorset’s schools earlier this year. 

Cllr Clare Sutton, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for children, education, skills, and early help said; “Well done to all the young people who took part in the Takeover Challenge. We hugely appreciate your time and input.

"By sharing your voices and experiences with us, you are directly helping to inform and shape our services to better meet the needs of young people and families. Thank you to all who took part.”