Spotlight On: Group Voice and Influence at Barca VIP
Youth voice groups support the Child Friendly Leeds 12 wishes, for all children and young people to be able to express their views, feel heard and be involved in decisions that affect their lives (wish number 3). One of the ways in which young people can do this in their community is by participating in a youth voice group.
The Voice, Influence and Change Team met with Barca VIP, a group of young people supported by Emma Chesman and Aiden Walker. The group meet at least meet once a week and have developed what they call ‘an association’ that is ‘accepting’, ‘inclusive’ and ‘open minded’. There are nine consistent group members, aged between 12-17, each bringing different qualities to their ‘family’:
- Daisy – “the main character”
- Layton – “the little brother”
- Harvey – “the opinionated one”
- Bella – “the one obsessed with Harry Potter”
- Alex – “the artist and photographer”
- Lily – “the quiet genius”
- Briegan – “the smartest and most mysterious”
- Gabby – “the funny one”
- Bella – “the trendy fashionista”
The group would like to address stereotypes of young people, and of Bramley, and therefore aim to bring the community together by planning and delivering projects in their local area. For example, they completed a ‘makeover’ of their community garden and have recently held a ‘palentines’ event for families during the half term. They explained that ‘not all teenagers have the resource or the facilities to be able to do these things’. They also commented that in order for people to change their perceptions, they must remember that ‘everybody’s life is different’, for example, ‘some teenagers have more responsibilities than others, meaning that they are more likely to be mature from a young age’.
Barca VIP believe they are well placed to ‘represent other young people’ and have developed knowledge that their ‘voice matters’, as well as the skills and confidence to ‘have a say’ on things that matter to them. They would therefore like to raise awareness of the Child Friendly Leeds wishes that they feel decision makers need to be aware of:
- Wish 1 – Children and young people know how and where to get support for their mental health and wellbeing if they need it.
- Wish 4 – Differences are celebrated in Leeds so children and young people feel accepted for who they are. They do not experience bullying and discrimination.
- Wish 6 – Children and young people can travel around the city safely and easily.
- Wish 8 – Leeds is a city that reduces the impact of poverty and helps families who need it.
The importance and value they place on their group is clear; it’s a place they can have ‘fun’ and ‘make friends’ whilst broadening their ‘mindset’ and helping with their ‘self-esteem’. It also provides ‘routine’ and ‘support’ so they are not left feeling like they have ‘nothing’ to do.
The Barca VIP group is a shining example of what can be achieved when likeminded, determined young people get together. In just one year the group have grown from three consistent members to nine… it’s no wonder they’re in demand when they bring so much energy and laughter to their community!
