Yesterday (23rd February) Helston Town Council were proud to Unveil Cornwall's first-ever Youth Manifesto, created by pupils from all four schools in Helston.

Back in November 2022, the Town Council hosted a Youth Engagement Day during which all pupils were encouraged to put forward issues close to their hearts.

After a fulsome debate in the Council Chamber, presided over by the Town Mayor Cllr Tim Grattan Kane, the young people voted on the issues they felt strongly about and whittled down their long list to a short list of ten priorities they would like to see addressed, either by the Town Council and partner organisations.

Youth Engagement day with Mayor Cllr Tim Grattan Kane (Image: Helston Town Council)

The students put together a manifesto that would help address issues that affected them, their peers, and their families.

HELSTON YOUTH MANIFESTO:

• A place where everyone feels safe.
• A place where everything and everyone feels welcome.
• Helston needs more facilities for young people.
• A litter-free clean town
• Encourage walking and cycling.
• Keep facilities local.
• Keep our unique traditions and festivals.
• Helston's healthcare should be locally accessible.
• Keep Helston's environment green.
• Everyone deserves educational opportunities.

Local artist Delia Webb was commissioned to work with the young people, to create a piece of public art that depicts the Youth Manifesto so it can be publicly displayed at the Guildhall, Helston for all to see.

Town Mayor Tim Grattan Kane said; " The Youth Manifesto represents an innovative approach to seeking the concerns of the young people of Helston. It enables us to work with them to address their issues in our service delivery. I was impressed with the thought and consideration expressed by the young people who attended this event."