YOUNG people from across North West Leeds have taken part in a range of activities and discussed how best to allocate funding for local projects.

Organised through the Outer North West Community Committee, the third annual engagement event saw 100 children from 30 primary and high schools learn about local governance, discuss with councillors what makes a good representative, and decide how to spend money that will benefit young people in the area aged eight to 17.

Pat Latty, ‘children’s champion’ and Guiseley and Rawdon ward councillor, said the day was all about giving young people a chance to influence decision making in their local area.

Councillor Pat Latty (Conservative, Guiseley and Rawdon Ward) said: “I was delighted to see the event so well attended from schools all across our area and I would like to warmly thank everyone who came. These events have proven to be extremely worthwhile, both for the young people themselves and the councillors who listen and respond to their views.

“The children and young people had the opportunity to discuss which potential activities and projects should benefit from grant funding. The views and feedback from this session will now be used to decide what activities are held in their neighbourhoods over the coming year.

“The engagement event has gone from strength to strength, thanks in no small part to the efforts of the officers who support the Outer North West Community Committee. The event provides a forum for young people to learn about local democracy and engage with the decisions that affect them, and I look forward to continuing to listen and respond to the priorities of young people in our area.”

All the students received a water bottle and sports bag from the Committee to thank them from their attendance.

Last year the Outer North West Community Committee allocated £50,000 of money to provide activities ranging from Mini Breezes, Youth Clubs, Drama, Bushcraft, Activity Camps and Computer Coding Workshops. Some of those activity providers attended the event and gave young people the chance to try something new.