Jo Coles - York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime

Jo Coles - North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime

1 December, 2025

What the Youth Commission means to me

As the York and North Yorkshire Youth Commission celebrates over ten years of peer-led research, youth-led change, and holding authorities to account, our members have been sharing their Youth Commission highlights and what being a part of the project means to them.

I joined the Youth Commission to connect with like-minded people and to make an impact on my local community. I’m proud of the workshops I have helped run and the professionals I have worked with to create positive change.

– Sophie

 

I think the best thing I did was take part in the conference.

It’s a space where I am able to connect with people to express my views on issues impacting young people.

– Aoife

 

I wanted to be involved in decisions impacting young people like me.

Some members wanted to share the value of being part of the Youth Commission and how being a member means being a part of real change:

Working with the Youth Commission helps keep the police accountable and improves the service both young people and the wider public receive across the county. Throughout the year, I have met a range of individuals from various organisations involved in policing, which has provided valuable insight into how the police service works.” Matthew

As part of the Youth Commission, I have been supported to challenge myself and do things I didn’t think I was capable of. I’ve met amazing people and had the chance to dive into topics I really care about. Most of all, I feel like we’re all making a difference.

-Hattie

 

If you want to know more about the York and North Yorkshire Youth Commission is up to, you can keep up to date with our monthly blogs right here!