Wigan’s youth population will have a stronger voice inside the borough’s key decision making body with the creation of a new position, its council leader has said.
An extra member will be added to the ranks of the ruling Labour group’s cabinet this week to represent the interests of young people.
Leader David Molyneux said the move will formalise the relationship between organisations such as the town’s Youth Zone and elected members.
Coun Susan Gambles, who represents Golborne and Lowton West, has been named in the new role as lead member for youth opportunities.
“I felt this was something we needed to address, to have someone to reflect the views of our 16 to 18 year olds, our young people,” said Coun Molyneux.
“We had a lot of engagement in particular from young people as part of our Big Listening Project for our Deal 2030 plans, from those in education or looking to go into further education or employment.”
The upcoming launch of GM mayor Andy Burnham’s 16 to 18 ‘Our Pass’ travel cards, plus the opportunity to work closely with Wigan Youth Zone, Youth Parliament members and other organisations prompted the move, the leader added.
He said: “Coun Gambles is very experienced and is pro-active in her own ward. She will be able to provide that voice explaining what young people are looking for and build that relationship.”
