This year’s Takeover Challenge saw young people ‘takeover’ some of the top roles and responsibilities at Dorset Council.
The Takeover Challenge is a yearly national campaign, running from 3-14 July, that allows young people to experience the workplace, inform decisions and have their voices heard.
33 young people, aged 10-17, including 21 young people who have a special educational need or disability, took part in the challenge.
The feedback from Dorset Council employees was universally positive, with many expressing how impressive the young people had been and how beneficial it was to hear from them first-hand and receive their input.
Young people assisted the Family Information Service by testing the website.
The challenge saw young people undertake several tasks, including:
- co-chairing the Youth Grant Fund meeting with Cllr Byron Quayle
- helping with web design and testing the family information service’s web pages
- providing feedback and inputting into the Belonging Strategy
- presenting to the workforce and providing valuable and impactful insight
- filming and editing content for the Work for Dorset social media account
Cllr Byron Quayle, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help said; “Well done to all the young people who took part in the Takeover Challenge. Their commitment and enthusiasm towards the challenge was wonderful to see, and we hugely appreciate their time and input.
“We’ve been inspired and humbled at their bravery. They were brilliant at challenging us and sharing their thoughts on how we can do things differently. By sharing their voices and experiences with us, they will directly help to inform and shape our services to better meet the needs of young people and families. Thank you to everyone who took part.”
Dorset Council received the following positive feedback from young people who took part in the Takeover Challenge:
“I enjoyed attending the meetings and learning about how the council works.”
“I really enjoyed seeing the Council chamber where decisions are made.”
“I think that the takeover challenge was fun. I enjoyed it as it was my first time. I am looking forward to it next year.”
“I learned how much thought went into making sure that children in care with a disability would feel safe and welcome.”
“I was able to talk to lots of people within the council. I was listened to, and my opinions and views were taken into consideration.”
“The only thing that would have made it better is if it didn’t end.”
To find out more about the Takeover Challenge or to get involved in upcoming Youth Voice activities visit the Dorset Council website and follow Youth in Dorset on social media.
