NEWS: Young people across the Malvern Hills have their say on what’s important
Climate change and job opportunities are the most important issues for young people in the Malvern Hills District, according to a vote.
More than 300 11 to 17-year-olds from across the district had their say on what they would most like to improve as part of a Futureproof vote organised by Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC).
The event, which was held as part of Local Democracy Week in November last year, saw the council set up pop-up polling stations where they asked young people to pick two top issues which concern them.
Voters had their choice of nine key issues which were suggested by young people from Malvern Cube Projects.
The issues included:
- Climate change and the environment
- Community safety including tackling cyber bullying
- Education and learning
- Emotional and mental wellbeing support
- Housing
- Jobs, money and opportunities
- Relationships with friends and family
- Things to do for young people
- Transport
MHDC visited Tenbury High Ormiston Academy (where young people also managed the station and became Poll Clerks for the day), Dyson Perrins Academy, Resonate Youth Club in Malvern, Malvern Cube Youth Café, and Upton Youth Club.
More than 300 ballots were counted with just under 600 issues voted for. The top two issues were ‘climate change and the environment’ and ‘jobs, money and opportunities.
The Community Services team and Councillors from MHDC will now be working closely with Worcestershire Youth Cabinet to plan a Youth Citizen’s Assembly to bring together local young people with decision makers, to discuss those top two issues, voted for by local young people.
Cllr Frances Victory, Youth Champion at MHDC, said: “It was wonderful to be a part of this exciting project and to learn more about our young people. It is so important they have the opportunity to have a say on what happens in their district. I would encourage them to take part in the Youth Citizen’s Assembly to see the outcome of their vote”.
Cllr Jennie Watkins, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing at MHDC, said: “What an amazing experience for the young people across our district to be involved in. Not only does it give them an insight into democracy in action but it also provides them with an opportunity to have a say on what is important to them and to get involved in making real change”.
Anusha, Chair of Worcestershire Youth Cabinet, said: “I firmly believe that youth views are essential in bridging the gap between local governance and the concerns of young people. This is a unique opportunity for the voices of Worcestershire's youth, particularly those in Malvern, to shape decisions that directly impact public services, as part the council's Five Year Plan to give priority to youth voices.”
This event forms part of the council’s Five Year Plan priority to ‘give young people the opportunity to have a say in public services’.
Young people can register to take part in the Youth Citizen’s Assembly by completing the short expression of interest form at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/community/youth or by emailing
NEWS Published: 23 January 2025.