On Sunday October 2^nd a group of local Scouts was privileged to attend the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester as part of the Association’s programme of ‘Speak Up’ events. This was a tremendous opportunity for young people to have their say and be involved in the shaping of the future. Catharine (18) from Bolton was there in her capacity as one of Greater Manchester North Scout County’s Young Spokespersons.

The young people worked initially with individual MPs., Catharine with Sajid Javid discussing first,-“What is your number one concern for now and the future?”. The main issues arising included unemployment, the rise in student tuition fees and the current cuts and their effect on the future of the country.

Secondly, “What skills has your involvement in Scouting offered you that you think will help you in the future?”. The number one response to this must be “confidence” which is developed through the activities undertaken in Scouting and the people you meet not only locally, but nationally and internationally on events such as the World Jamboree that recently took place in Sweden.

The third question was “What can politicians do to help ensure that the future looks positive for young people?”. The responses varied on this from ‘just showing up at events to show their support for the community that they represent’, to having the ministers actually working in their communities to illustrate to them just how badly cuts are affecting local people.

The final question was “What can young people do to make sure that the future looks more positive?”. In response it was said that young people should get more involved in managing their communities using the skills they have acquired in not only Scouting but other youth organisations.

They should ensure that the positive aspects of youth get a higher profile through volunteering and other activities.