Sixty-five children, young people and adults took part in an event in Wakefield last Saturday to talk about issues facing their generation, and what the Council and its partners can do to support them.

The sixth Build Our Futures Summit was held in Unity Hall, where young people, parents and carers, and professionals joined together to share their views and ideas, access workshops, watch performances and ask questions to a panel of professionals and local leaders.

As the event took place during Anti-Bullying Week (14 – 18 November), the focus of the day was to empower young people to ‘Reach Out’ to counter the harm and hurt that bullying causes, with discussion taking place on what everyone can do to stop bullying and enhance the experience of growing up in the Wakefield district.

There was also much discussion and updates around progress made on the young people’s priorities from previous summits, which form part of the Children and Young People’s Plan 2022-2025, and the work still to do.

Councillor Margaret Isherwood, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “This was another very successful day. We want to ensure that all children and young people receive the support they need to achieve their ambitions, reach their goals and we recognise it’s very important that we and our partners listen to their views and feedback.”

“We have some amazing young people in our district, and they are making a very important contribution to supporting the lives of others now and in the future.”

“I’d also like to thank Young Lives Consortium, Wakefield Libraries and The Big Conversation for their part in making this event a success.”

Find out more about the event and the activities and support for young people in Wakefield by going to wfyouth.co.uk