As part of UK Parliament Week (18 to 24 November), Sandwell Council hosted a series of interactive workshops for young people and schools across Sandwell.
The council is working with children’s charity the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) and local partners towards international recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly Community.
The week-long activities, held as part of the UK Parliament Week celebrations, encouraged young people to learn more about careers in local government and how the council allocates and manages its budget. Young people were encouraged to explore democratic values and share ideas to help build a thriving community in Sandwell.
The virtual and in-person workshops aimed to inspire the next generation of changemakers in Sandwell. Together with UNICEF UK, we are helping to create a place where children’s rights are respected, where their dreams are supported and where they can grow up with the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, said "We are delighted to hold activities as part of UK Parliament week, to encourage young people in Sandwell to learn about democracy and the impact their voices can have.
“It’s vital to nurture their interest in civic life and ensure they feel empowered to contribute to the decisions that shape their future."
During the week, the council also hosted a special youth session in the Council Chamber, where young participants had the chance to step into the shoes of decision-makers, debate local issues and present innovative ideas for the community’s growth and wellbeing. Pupils met with West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes to give their suggestions on how to improve their local area and influence the decisions that affect them.
Jeni Bainbridge, Child Friendly Cities & Communities Programme Manager, UNICEF UK, said: “Sandwell has made a clear commitment to engage meaningfully with children and young people – especially those who might not usually have their voices heard - so that they can share their priorities for making the community more child-friendly, and can hold the council to account.
The UK Parliament Week activities have been a strong example of how the council and its local partners are championing the voices of children and young people by ensuring their views are given equal weight to adults when decisions are made about the communities they are growing up in.”
Liz Moore, Teacher St Martin’s C of E Primary School, Tipton said: “The children of St Martin’s had a truly inspiring visit to Sandwell Council’s chambers as part of UK Parliament Week.
This unique opportunity not only deepened their understanding of local government but also encouraged them to consider the importance of decision-making in their community.
We’re incredibly grateful to Sandwell Council for providing such an engaging and educational experience, which has left a lasting impression on the children”.
Lilly, aged 11 said: "I learned so much about how decisions are made and how we can get involved. It’s amazing to know that our ideas can make a difference."
Find out more visit Sandwell becoming a Child Friendly Borough.