Young people will have the chance to shape and influence the UK’s leading child protection charity with the announcement of a new advisory group.

The Young People’s Board for Change will be a vital part of the NSPCC’s commitment to ensure children and young people are at the heart of its decision-making. The charity is looking to recruit 15 young people aged between 13 and 16 to represent the views of young people and help to shape the work of the NSPCC across the UK.

The Board members will use the platform to raise awareness of what matters most to young people, take action and make change happen. They will also have a big role internally at the organisation advising staff and trustees. The young people will take part in new experiences and opportunities, meet other young people, as well as develop confidence and learn life-long new skills, such as campaigning and public speaking.

Over a two-year period, members will be involved in sharing what’s important to them, take part in residentials, meetings and workshops, and campaign to share their views and opinions.

Recently, the NSPCC appointed Ife Grillo, 22, and Sheanna Patelmaster, 24, as trustees with a specialist focus on working with and supporting the Young People’s Board for Change. The Young People’s Board for Change is the next stage of an important journey to better represent young people’s views and include them in the charity’s work. 

Lucy Read, NSPCC Associate Head of Participation, said: 

“Children and young people all over the UK have had an incredibly difficult year, the Young People’s Board for Change offers an exciting opportunity for them to share what matters most to them, be heard and change the lives of others.” 

“We are committed to ensuring that young people are empowered and that their opinions are listened to. Children are the experts on their own lives, and I am looking forward to learning from the new Board who will provide an important new perspective. It’s vital that we put children and young people first and embed their views into everything we do in our fight for every childhood.”

The NSPCC wants as many young people as possible to have the opportunity to apply, so is encouraging teachers and other professionals to share details with their students and through their networks. They can find a recruitment pack with an A5 flyer, information sheets, application form and parent/carer consent form on the NSPCC website.

The deadline for completed applications is 11^th January and interviews will be held between 18 – 21^st January.

Young people can apply by filling out an application form, or completing one online at: nspcc.org.uk/boardforchange.

For more information about the board and an informal chat please contact [email protected].