ELEVEN young people from across the borough have taken on the role of advisor to ensure that young adults' voices are heard when it comes to making decisions.

The individuals, aged between 16 and 19, were locally recruited and professionally trained by the Young Advisors charity to provide links between professionals, young people and their communities.

Since coming together in October 2016, the young advisors have been working on a number of projects, including the creation of a pocket-sized leaflet which focuses on the dangers and laws of carrying knifes, and a three-year action plan.

For an official launch event, the group visited St Helens Town Hall where they presented their services to a number of councillors, council officers, and safety partners including Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

Among those in attendance was St Helens Council’s cabinet member for children, families, young people and education, who praised the group for the impact they have made in such a short space of time.

Councillor Jeanette Banks said: “It was fascinating to sit and listen to the work that our young advisors have undertaken, centred on topics that they care so passionately about.

“Young people have the power to shape our future, so it is vital that their thoughts and ideas are represented. St Helens young advisors allow this to happen, speaking out for young people and making sure their thoughts and feelings are considered in decisions that affect them.”

The young advisors have also been working with the Teen Advice Zone team to become Young People Friendly (YPF) assessors. The YPF award is given to services that are welcoming to young people and achieve the award criteria.