Act Now

 

Here at Enable Youth we’re really keen to stand up and say what we think about things, and we know that you have loads to say too. And we’re not the only ones. The UN Convention on the Rights of a Child (article 12) says that you have the right to have a say about things that affect you – and that you should be heard.

But it’s hard to know where to start, who to talk to, what to say, and how to take action on things to make things better. So, we thought that we’d put together all the things we’ve learned about speaking out, to help others to do the same.

Enable Youth’s Top Tips on getting your Voice Heard:

  1. Make sure you know what you want to say! This sounds obvious, but making sure you have a clear message is the first thing you need to do. Try not to cram too much in, focus on 1 thing you first and work on that.
  2. Get together with like-minded people: It can be quite scary standing up for something you believe in on your own, so talk to other people and see what they think. Try to get 1 or 2 other people together to help or support you.
  3. Be realistic: We know there are so many things we want to see changed, but we also know some things are just impossible (like building a water park in the middle of Market Harborough). Pick something you really care about, and that is achievable (having said that, don’t be afraid to think big!)
  4. Have the right attitude: We found that its important to be strong in your views, but not aggressive or feisty. Try to be diplomatic and willing to negotiate – and try to see things from the other persons point of view even if you don’t agree with them!
  5. Be patient: Some things are easy to change, but other things take a lot of time, so you need to be ready for the long haul.
  6. Be willing to follow it through: It takes people with determination and staying power to make real changes in society, you can’t just throw in a great idea and expect someone else to do the work for you. We know how much work goes into stuff, and it’s not easy (but it is worth it in the end)
  7. Talk to the right people: It can take a while to find out who you need to speak to, and you might have to talk to lots of people before you get the right one. Start by asking parents, teachers or youth workers, but don’t be afraid to go further and talk to other people who influence decisions (see below for a list).

Have you got anything to add to this? If you’ve ever tried to get your voice heard, we’d like to hear about it. Tell us what you did, how it went and what top tips you have for other people.

Ok, so you’ve got something to say, but who can you turn to to tell? Here are just a few of the people you can turn to to get your voice heard:

  • Friends. Start talking to your mates about it, see what they think about your ideas.
  • Parents, teachers, youth workers or adults you trust could be good to talk to.
  • Your local Parish Council – they are responsible for making some changes locally and are often keen to hear from people who live the area. you could write to them, or ask to speak at one of their meetings.
  • Write a letter to your local newspaper, like the Harborough & Lutterworth Mail just send an email to newsdesk@harboroughmail.co.uk
  • Get in touch with Leicestershire Youth Council (CYCLe)
  • Write an article for our new newsletter Speak Out
  • Get in touch with Enable Youth! We’re here to help you get heard. We can offer advice and support, and we can work with you to get your Voice heard, to take Action, locally and to create Change.

 

Let us know if there’s anyone we’ve missed off this list! We don’t know everything, but are just making a start.