Each year a Youth Convener is appointed to be a full-time voice for young people in Highland. The Youth Convener provides a consistent link for Elected Members and senior officials and represents the interests of all young people to the Highland Council and other key agencies.
The Youth Convener attends Highland Council and Community Partner meetings and has speaking rights on the Education Committee and other Council Committees. The Youth Convener works closely with young people across the Highlands through Highland Youth Parliament, Local Youth Forums, Pupil Councils and other youth groups.
Lauren McKittrick took up the role of Highland Youth Convener in August 2024, becoming the 16th Youth Convener since 2007. This full-time role is a bursary position that will run for 12 months.
Lauren said:
I am delighted to be awarded this remarkable opportunity, it is a truly unique chance to gain a clear understanding of both the issues and interests of the young people living in the Highlands.
“Over the course of the year, I will be collating the views expressed, and passing them on to local organisations, The Highland Council and Community Planning partners, ensuring that young people have a voice in the decisions that affect them and their wider community.
My aim is to ensure that there are opportunities for each and every young person in the Highlands to develop their skills and interests to promote their well-being. I will be working hard to remove established barriers to opportunities, as well as partnering with local organisations to create more chances for young people to get involved with their community such as through music, the arts, sports and so on.
I am keen to provide a platform to those whose voices often go unheard, therefore I will be making in person visits to clubs, charities, and schools a priority throughout the year. I will make active efforts to reach out to those young people needing more support, for example, young people who are refugees, military families, home schoolers young carers and care experienced young people, linking in with and supporting existing projects where I can.
Ultimately, I hope to empower the young people of the Highlands with the knowledge that their voices matter and are heard while also allowing them the opportunity for personal growth regardless of barriers that are presented.”
For more information please contact [email protected]
Twitter: @HighlandYC
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HighlandYC
Instagram: @highlandyouthconvener
The image shows: (L-R): Kate Lackie, Assistant Chief Executive (People); Cllr Drew Millar, Education Vice Chair; Lauren; Cllr John Finlayson, Education Chair.