Attending the Nottinghamshire Youth Commission ‘Big Conversation’ Conference 2024 was a truly inspiring experience. It was a fantastic opportunity to listen to the young representatives articulate their priorities for the Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. Their insights and enthusiasm provided a refreshing perspective on the issues that matter most to the youth of Nottinghamshire.
One of the highlights of the conference was hearing the young delegates passionately discuss the initiatives they would like to see implemented. Their focus on safety, community engagement, and proactive measures to foster positive relationships between the police and the youth was particularly commendable.
During the conference, I had the privilege of speaking about the significance of sports and the necessity of funding to support groups and organisations working with young people in a sporting environment. Sports play a crucial role in fostering teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, and it is essential that we continue to support these initiatives.
However, I also took the opportunity to address a concern close to my heart: the need to support young people who are not interested in sports. I emphasised the importance of providing funding for initiatives focused on science, arts, and media. These fields offer invaluable opportunities for creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. It is crucial that we make resources available for those who can deliver training classes, fun sessions, and events in these areas.
I was pleased to find that my ideas resonated with many of the young attendees. It was heartening to see the positive response and agreement from the audience. One representative from a local group expressed her support for my proposal and mentioned that she would be putting forward a business case as soon as funding becomes available. This kind of proactive engagement and commitment to diverse interests is exactly what the ‘Big Conversation’ aims to foster.
The event was impeccably organised, as always, by the Nottinghamshire Youth Commission. It successfully brought together young people and adults to discuss and agree on ideas that will shape the future. The enthusiasm and constructive dialogue at the conference were a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.
In conclusion, the Nottinghamshire Youth Commission ‘Big Conversation’ Conference 2024 was a remarkable event. It was an honour to be a part of such a dynamic forum and to see firsthand the passion and commitment of Nottinghamshire’s youth. I am optimistic that with continued support and funding, we can create a more inclusive environment that nurtures the talents and interests of all young people, whether they are inclined towards sports, science, arts, or media.
Independent Councillor Richard MacRae 