Young People Lead the Way in Shaping Southampton’s Future

Southampton City Council has taken a major step forward in its ambition to become a more child-friendly city by placing young people at the centre of local decision-making.

This week, a group of trained young researchers and inspectors were honoured at a special reception in the Right Worshipful Lord Mayor’s Parlour at the Civic Centre, where they celebrated their achievements and shared the results of their work investigating children’s services in the city.

The initiative, supported by the University of Southampton, saw young people undergo formal training in how to design and conduct research. Many chose to focus on the services that directly impact their lives. Their findings, which offer rare and valuable insight, are already helping to shape how services are delivered across the city.

Some participants advanced to train as young inspectors, focusing on supported accommodation for children and young people in care. Their evaluations have helped develop a robust framework of recommendations now being used to improve care provision.

Councillor Lorna Fielker, Leader of Southampton City Council, praised the programme as a model of meaningful engagement.

“The significance of this piece of work conducted by young people for young people is a real example of how we are listening and responding to their voices,” she said. “It gives the young researchers and inspectors valuable skills that can be referenced when applying for jobs, and it empowers the young people to play an active role in making change happen.”

The project is part of a wider push by the council to involve young people in shaping public services. This includes working alongside a Young Adult Co-production Volunteer with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to co-create inclusive social media content, and partnering with Youth Options to ensure that looked-after children and care leavers have a say in how services are developed.

The council is encouraging more young people to get involved. Anyone interested in participating in similar projects can contact the council’s academy team at academy@southampton.gov.uk.

Councillor Fielker added, “Projects like these are something I look forward to seeing more of in the future, to help shape Southampton for the young people of tomorrow.”