The youth engagement and consultation work in Cumbernauld came about as part of a wider focus on making sure young people’s voices are heard, especially around issues that directly affect them. It was recognised that involving young people aged 12–18 in shaping their community is a priority.
Young people were also actively included in the consultation on the new NL Community Safety Strategy, where they had the opportunity to share concerns and agree priorities.
The aim of the consultation in High Schools was to gather feedback, opinions, and ideas from young people about what matters to them, and to give them a say in local decision-making.
These groups worked together to engage young people through schools and youth organisations, holding sessions and discussions to hear their views. The consultation was carried out locally, within the Cumbernauld area, and aimed to make young people feel genuinely involved in shaping their community.