Central Croydon. Photo: Mark Grealish

Young people who are  ‘committed, lively and outgoing’ with an interest in politics and social issues are being sought by Croydon Council to become Youth Councillors.

The one-year Youth Councillor positions are open to teenagers from 11 to 19 years old, who live, work or study in Croydon and are ‘passionate about getting young people’s voices heard’.

Participants will work with the council on a voluntary basis for 2 hours a week. The scheme offers the opportunity to experience various different roles, including campaigning and creating new council projects for the future, but also reviewing policy and encouraging greater political involvement among peers.

The Youth Council initiative is not only beneficial to the authority: as well as receiving references for future employment, participants will be offered training in a number of important work skills, including public speaking, confidence and the art of influencing.

To help the new Youth Councillors get the most from their time in the role, they will also benefit from the advice and guidance of a personal mentor.

Applications from young people of disadvantaged or minority backgrounds are encouraged, and the Youth Council boasts members ‘from a diverse range of backgrounds, faiths, ages and genders’.

Applications close on 29 March. For further information, visit http://www.croydon.gov.uk/democracy/cyc/croydonyouthcouncil