Our Youth Board plays an important role in shaping the work of WYC, ensuring that young people are not just recipients of our services, but active partners in shaping their own wellbeing and that of their community. Members influence decision-making, contribute to key organisational processes such as strategy and governance, and review and advise on current services.
In line with our charity values, we continue to strengthen our community networks and partnerships while spotlighting the work of our Youth Board. We also engage with both local and national communities to highlight the importance of youth mental health.
As part of our charity mission at WYC, we aim to continue building our position as a youth-led organisation that advocates for positive mental health outcomes for young people.
Change is Driven by Young Voices
Representing Diversity: Our Youth Advisory Board members come from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community, neurodiverse individuals, and those from minority ethnic groups. This ensures we truly understand the needs and challenges faced by young people in our community.
Driving Positive Change: Our Youth Board plays a crucial role in:
Understanding young people’s needs and perspectives: They inform our decisions and ensure our programs and services are relevant and engaging.
Developing and implementing impactful programs: Youth Advisory Board members participate in shaping new initiatives and improving existing ones.
Advocating for young people’s rights: They champion youth voices at local government and community events, ensuring their concerns are heard.
Encouraging young people to reach out for support: Youth Advisory Board members actively engage with their peers, breaking down barriers to seeking help.
Young Voices, Big Impact: How Our Youth Board Drives Change
Our Youth Board meets monthly and participates in various activities, including:
Providing feedback on our strategy, policies, and processes.
Shaping the development of new and existing programmes and services.
Representing WYC at events and fundraising initiatives.
Advocating for young people’s rights and interests to decision-makers.
Support recruitment processes for staff and trustees.
Attend staff events, including strategy days and professional or social team gatherings.
Interested in joining the Youth Board and making a difference? Learn more about the application process by emailing Katy, our Programmes Manager – katy@winchyc.org
Setting up a Youth Board
Top Tips to support mental wellbeing, from our Youth Board members
“I always find that surrounding myself in nature, with friends, and keeping my mind busy help me to feel better sometimes. But on days where it doesn’t, accepting the fact that it’s okay to feel down and that everyone does feel the same as you at some point or another, makes me feel less alone and more optimistic about tomorrow.”
Charlotte
“As I can’t do much in terms of physical exercise and movement, I like to ground myself with a hobby that has a physical result. Cross stitching is my favourite craft; it keeps me in the present, and in the end, I have a piece of art that I can be proud of and share with those around me.”
Megan
“I believe it is important to understand yourself to know what is best for your mental health. Everyone is different; therefore, everyone has their own preference as to what helps them. For me, it’s to try new things and don’t be afraid to say yes!”
Emaline
