For me, getting young people involved in the regeneration of the area is high on my agenda. One measure of our success will be the extent to which all people, but especially young people, can contribute to the big changes which are happening in Stoke-on-Trent.
I am very worried that young people in Stoke-on-Trent are becoming increasingly disengaged from politics and from society as a whole. This is demonstrated by the fact that in 2005 only 34% of 18-24 year olds voted in the general election. Such disengagement is bad for young people, bad for society and I consider it vital to harness the thoughts and enthusiasm of our young people in the decision making process.
But engagement is not simply about politics or voting it is about getting involved in the community around us and making a contribution. This month I have had a number of meetings with various youth organisations to both learn what opportunities are available to young people in Stoke and to encourage the development of further opportunities. For example, I was delighted that the Government recently awarded £240,000 to Stoke-on-Trent through the vinspired National Youth Volunteering Programme. Administered through North Staffordshire YMCA, the money is to provide young people with opportunities to volunteer their time in areas in which they are interested. If you would like to volunteer, or if you can offer opportunities for volunteers then please contact the YMCA on 01782 864 500.
I also regularly visit our local schools and arrange trips to Westminster for people to visit me at the House of Commons. If you too would like to come Westminster please contact my office on 01782 577900 to arrange. Westminster is a fascinating place and it is where many of the decisions that affect us all are made. Do come and have a look.
Following on from our success of winning the Enterprising Britain Award last year I will soon be launching the Make Your Mark Enterprise Award. This is an exciting Award which challenges young people to devise enterprising initiatives and to make them happen and I encourage everyone to get involved. If you are interested feel free to contact the Awards direct on 0207 4974042.
Such opportunities as these are numerous in Stoke but awareness of them is often limited. It is for this reason that I have decided to use this website as a central hub of information aimed at empowering young people with the tools they need to get involved in any project that interests them. I have provided web links, phone numbers and descriptions of a whole host of activities which I hope should enthuse people whatever their interests. I hope you find this section useful and please don’t be shy, get involved!
I really do want to hear from you so please do let me know your thoughts. It is only together that we can make things better.
Thanks for your time.
walleyj@parliament.uk
Are you interested in finding out more about Parliament? Take a look at Explore Parliament and discover what really happens in Parliament. The CBBC also has a useful education site; CBBC Politics.