Youth Conference

An important conference to discuss the issues that matter to young people in Dover District is being held at Dover Town Hall on Tuesday 4 July from 10am to 3.30pm.

The first Dover District Youth Conference, organised by Dover District Council's Community Safety Unit and Kent County Council's Youth Service, is for invited young people in the district aged 11-18. The day will include "Political Speed Dating", where Councillors and representatives will be answering questions from young people, and a range of workshops, discussions and road shows, including a chip pan fire demonstration by Kent Fire and Rescue.

The day will also feature the results of the first annual Dover District Youth Survey. This was launched in the spring to gain an understanding of young people's views and opinions throughout the district. It covers the key issues as identified in the Dover District 2005-2008 Youth Strategy. The results of the survey will be key in helping Dover District Council, Kent County Council and other agencies shape the future of the district for young people.

Cllr Mrs Julie Rook, DDC Cabinet Member for Citizenship and Consumer Affairs said: "We are delighted to welcome the launch of the Youth Conference as part of our vital work with the community and partnership agencies to make sure that young people are given a real voice. The Youth Survey and the Youth Forum are also vital parts of our work to understand what young people want and how we work to meet those needs."

KCC Cabinet Member for Communities Mike Hill said: "We are keen to help provide the opportunities for young people in Kent to have their say and play their part in shaping the area where they live. It is crucial to offer the most appropriate services which will help include and support the young members of our community."

For more information, please contact Yvonne Holder at Dover District Council on (01304) 872153 or Bill Butler at the Kent County Council's Youth Service on (01304) 375559.