Redbridge Youth Council

Join the Youth Council and make a difference to your borough

Are you:

• feeling that there is nothing for young people to do?
• thinking that nobody ever listens to your views?
• wishing you had more input into what happens in Redbridge?
• aged between 11 and 19 and living and/or studying in Redbridge?

Then come and join the Redbridge Youth Council.

Redbridge Youth Elections - now open 

Manifestos 2026

Ahmad Raza

Electronic Poverty is a serious issue across Redbridge, with thousands of young people lacking the device or internet access they need to succeed in exams such as GCSE’s or A-levels. According to the London Office of Technology and Innovation 35% of Redbridge residents are digitally excluded, which includes young people. That’s over 15,000 young people in our borough that are affected. I aim to lead fundraising events such as community runs, food festivals or even talent shows where people can enjoy themselves whilst raising money to provide essential equipment for those in need.

Young People in Redbridge face growing pressures from things like social media and exams. I will create a youth wellbeing summit – a borough wide event where young people can hear from inspirational speakers and engage in practical workshops, where they can learn about exam stress management, social media and self-esteem but also mindfulness techniques. Alongside this, the summit will celebrate our borough’s diverse culture through things like cultural clothing giving young people the chance to express pride in their heritage. This will give everyone the confidence to tackle mental health challenges which they might face.

Young People are naturally creative, and not everyone enjoys sharing their voice through councils or lengthy forms. I aim to create youth voice portals across Redbridge, that offer multiple ways to be heard. Posters with QR codes will be put up around Redbridge e.g. bus stops, where young people can quickly answer questions about local issues. At Redbridge libraries, youth can express voices creatively by drawing or writing, with submissions being collected regularly to shape RYC meetings. This ensures a vast majority of young people whether digital or creative have an effective way to share their voice.

· Fundraising through fun events to provide essential technology for more than 15,000 young people

· Host Borough-wide youth well-being summit celebrating culture and workshops on resilience

· Create QR code posters & library hubs so youth can share their voice both digitally or creatively

Alexandra Rusu

I aim to reduce or even eliminate peer pressure. This occurs daily in schools and our community, especially during significant life changes. Due to peer pressure, children’s physical and mental health is being harmed by being pushed into situations they dislike, leading to serious issues like bullying, which is common today. My goal is to empower young people to say NO to peers who make them feel unsafe and uncomfortable; make them understand -they don’t have to follow the crowd. We can achieve this by introducing peer mentors, so students can comfortably talk to someone their age, organising more lessons, workshops, and after-school clubs to encourage open conversations. We must promote helpful websites and apps (Kooth etc) where young people can seek support.

As someone passionate about exploring our area and wanting to join different activities and clubs, many children and I don’t feel safe travelling by public transport, especially alone. Particularly during winter, when the days are shorter, working with the police and TFL is essential to increase the staff, patrols and the number of buses, especially around schools and bus stations during school rush times. At school, there should be more workshops on public transport safety. Perhaps promoting free self-defence clubs could help.

To ensure that young people’s voices are heard, I would create surveys that would then be sent to the Youth Council and based on that to make new projects and decisions. However, even before that, I would make more leaflets to encourage them to speak up, to inform them about what is happening in Redbridge, London, UK. I want each school to include a radio system where, during lunch, break, music can be played, and hold discussions on different topics, so each child’s voice can be heard in the community -Let Us Speak Up!

· To reduce or stop peer pressure by making peer mentors, clubs, and workshops

· To make public transport safer by working with TFL and the police

· To make young generations’ voices heard and inform them through surveys, leaflets, and radios

Eesa Shah

Work experience for all

Issue

Post-pandemic reduction has occurred in available placements with many children looking for work experience to enrich preparation for university/apprenticeships. Not all placements are meaningful or provide valuable learning making children feel let down or used.

Proposal

Make better structured-work experience programs:

• Partner with local schools, charities, and community centres to proactively identify students who would benefit
• Transportation vouchers or local placements to reduce travel barriers.
• Clear rationale, purpose and targets for placements so students (and organisers) are aware of successful outcomes.
• An awareness campaign advertising available opportunities.

Digital Skills and Coding Workshops for Children

Issue

Many new careers need knowledge of computers and AI hence the need for access to digital skills, support in coding and internet safety. Access to a suitable device for online learning or opportunities to learn coding and tech skills promotes creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.

Proposal

Access to technology and digital competence courses:

• Regular workshops for digital skills, coding, and internet safety.
• Collaborate with tech companies, schools, and coding clubs for engaging, hands-on activities.
• Provide access to technology.

Raising voice of youth in Redbridge

Issue

Youth may feel local councils are difficult to reach; lack faith in issues being taken seriously; may not understand the purpose behind issues or have the cultural sensitivity to entertain conversations. With the Members of Youth Parliament elected from within their own community, there is a firmer bridge that partially will begin to overcome these barriers, but then logistics of dialogue remains another.

Proposal

Formulate a termly diary for dialogue between the Youth Parliament and school student councils to discuss relevant issues.

· Redbridge youth need access to a fairer and broader variety of useful work experience placements

· Redbridge youth need guidance & access to coding and digital skills to be ready for a world of AI

· Create open dialogue for Redbridge youth so concerns are registered leading to meaningful actions

Gabrealla Akpoveta 

I want to be a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) because I believe young people in Redbridge deserve more opportunities to succeed and to be heard. My manifesto focuses on three issues that matter to us and can be achieved within the role of an MYP. 

Small Scale Project: Homework & Study Support 
Many young people struggle with homework and revision outside of school. I would work with local libraries and youth centres to set up free afterschool study clubs, supported by volunteers and older students. This would give young people a safe place to learn, share ideas, and prepare for exams. 

Main Project: Youth Employment & Local Business Partnerships 
Young people often find it hard to get work experience or part time jobs. I would connect with local businesses and other partnerships in Redbridge to create opportunities such as internships, skills workshops, and mentoring. This project would help young people gain confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for future careers. 

Improving Youth Voice in Redbridge 
Young people’s opinions are not always included in local decisions. I would strengthen youth voice by creating regular forums where young people can meet councillors, share ideas, and vote on priorities. This would make sure our voices are heard and acted upon. 

• Free study clubs in libraries give young people safe support for homework, ideas, and exam prep 
• Redbridge youth gain jobs, skills & mentoring through local partnerships for future careers 
• Youth forums in Redbridge empower young people to meet Councillors, share ideas & shape decisions 

Hannah Husain

Every child deserves the essentials - food, sanitary products, stationery and care - so they can live, grow and learn with dignity. But in Redbridge, this is not 100% achieved yet, with 19% of children in child poverty. Therefore, I aim to create ‘Essentials Corners’ around Redbridge schools/libraries/youth centres to provide more basic necessities free of charge. I also aim to engage more schools in Redbridge with food banks, something I’m heavily involved in at my school, to both increase necessities available to struggling children, and encourage showing kindness to all young people in Redbridge. 

 Women excelling in the future heavily depends on the career-based encouragement and opportunities provided to them as young girls—58% of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic women being economically inactive can show a lack of encouragement, support and opportunities for aspirational women starting from a young age. To tackle this and help girls from any backgrounds succeed in their chosen career path, I plan to create a Redbridge Young  Women’s Skills & Careers Network that works through schools, youth hubs and libraries which include workshops led by women from diverse backgrounds (local entrepreneurs, NHS workers, legal professionals etc),  teaching confidence, leadership, how succeeded, making CVs and more.  

The ability to have a voice for the youth and engage with local decisions starts with the ability to understand, especially with the voting age lowering to 16 for the next general election. I aim to run non-partisan workshops in school teaching how parliament works, what different parties aim to do, how laws are passed and what the Redbridge Youth Council is, and why joining it can help improve the borough and country as a whole. This will boost political literacy and awareness of how to help out in our borough, which will amplify youth voice. 

• I aim to ensure more young people have access to the basic necessities to tackle child poverty 
• To help girls from diverse backgrounds gain skills, mentors and opportunities in any career path 
• I aim to boost political literacy and give young people ways to understand decisions and take part 

Inaaya Ijaz

As a regular member of Youth Council, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful our voices are, how essential safety is and the importance of our successes being recognised. My manifesto is built on three key priorities that reflect the concerns and ambitions of young people across our borough: safety, recognition, and achievement. 

Tackling Knife Crime Through Awareness and Collaboration 
Knife crime affects families, schools, and communities. I’ll work closely with knife crime charities to deliver meaningful workshops, campaigns, and conversations that raise awareness and empower young people to stay safe. My aim is to create a culture where young people can speak openly about their experiences, understand the risks, and access the support they need. Safety should never be something we take for granted — it should be something we strengthen together. 

Celebrating Young People Through the “NextGen Awards” 
Young people across Redbridge are achieving incredible things in leadership, kindness, creativity, activism, and academics; many of which go unrecognised.  I’ll introduce the NextGen Awards Ceremony, a platform where students from every year group can be nominated and celebrated. This event will highlight the positive contributions young people make and inspire others to get involved, innovate, and lead. 

Providing Real and Accessible Revision Support 
Every student deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of background or circumstance. To support this, I’ll partner with the Redbridge Youth Council to introduce Year Leaders (one for each year from 7–13) who will share study tips, exam techniques, and wellbeing guidance. Alongside this, we’ll launch a borough-wide student survey so you can tell us what subjects you struggle with, what stresses you out, and what support you need. Your feedback will shape resources, Q&As, and events designed to help you feel confident and prepared. 

• Tackle knife crime by partnering with organisations to raise awareness and empower youth voices 
• Launch the NextGen Awards to recognise students’ achievements in leadership, creativity and more 
• Help students ace exams by providing revision support through the Redbridge Youth Council 

Marissa Kabir

Mental health has become almost a ‘buzzword’ amongst the youth, yet young people in Redbridge struggle to speak up. People are vulnerable towards the concept of vulnerability: the expectation to be strong and tough is taking and ruining lives. To tackle this, I propose the formation of creative outlets at Redbridge locations, such as performance nights or open-mic evenings, showcasing art forms like rap and poetry. Amongst the youth, it is easy for instances of genuine struggle to be dismissed as ‘banter’, and therefore the promotion of stress-relief focused extra-curriculars aids a greater focus on the language used throughout Redbridge’s schools. I’ll post about these events through social media as a means of fostering community and channelling hardships into art.   

As the third most diverse local authority in England, cultural stigma around harassment or violence has become embedded into society: propagated during childhood. To tackle this, I aim to communicate with more schools to amplify the ‘Step into Secondary’ scheme- harassment cannot stop until the message is heard clearly. I want our youth to feel a sense of pride for Redbridge, and this cannot happen until they feel safe. I aim to use student testimonies to create a map of ‘hotspots’ for violence and harassment and presenting the findings to the police and TFL to push for lighting and CCTV in specific areas.  

Our youth must know that success has many doors, with not one of them limited by education. I wish to increase young people’s exposure to the world of work that will impact long-term: I would communicate with local Redbridge success stories to organise workshops such as ‘career speed-dating’ with professionals from different fields. Additionally, I would organise skill-building activities such as portfolio/CV clinics: paramount to ensuring each young person has an equal chance of fulfilling their potential.  

• I aim to establish creative programmes to support youth mental health and challenge harmful stigma 
• I aim to challenge harassment in schools and communicate to demand targeted safety measures 
• I will open doors post-secondary via career workshops, CV clinics and real access to local success 

Samuel Nwanguma

If elected as Youth MP, one of my priorities will be addressing antisocial behaviour on our high streets, especially after school hours. After around 4 PM, many young people and residents deal with intimidation and confrontations from groups gathering in these areas. This problem is worsened by the absence of school staff, who usually monitor these spaces but leave shortly after 3:30 PM, and by the lack of visible uniformed officials. To tackle this, I would work closely with the Metropolitan Police to increase links between them and young people and make it easier for young people to report crime or antisocial behaviour, ensuring safer streets. 

I would also focus on improving access to mental health advice for young people in Redbridge. Many hesitate to seek help because of stigma, embarrassment, or confusion about where to go. As a result, they often turn to unreliable sources to seek help or to ‘cure them’, like friends or random online searches, which can be unsafe and misleading. To change this, I would collaborate with Redbridge Mental Health Support to hold more workshops around mental health. These spaces would allow young people to ask questions, receive guidance, access trustworthy information without judgment, and slowly decrease the stigma around it, making it less of a taboo in society. 

Finally, to improve youth voice, I am going to put the youth at the forefront of change in Redbridge by bridging the gap between schools and Redbridge Youth Council (RYC). If I become MYP, I will work closely with student leaders from schools across Redbridge and utilise this as a formal advisory group that can distribute the messages of RYC and push out surveys and workshops but also come forward with concerns on behalf of their school, enhancing youth voice in Redbridge.  

• I aim to increase relationships with the Met Police & the youth to make it easier to report crime 
• I aim to coordinate with organisations to hold workshops around mental health 
• I aim to work with student leaders from schools across Redbridge to aid in representation of youth voice 

Samuel Oppong

If I am elected as the Member of Youth Parliament for Redbridge, my main project will be to create a “Pop-Up Youth Zone.” This would be a small, mobile space that travels around different parts of Redbridge, setting up in parks, community centres, or school halls. The idea is to provide a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for young people without requiring a huge budget. The Youth Zone could include games, music, art supplies, and comfortable seating areas where young people can relax and chat. To make it even more engaging, volunteers could run workshops such as dance, drama, or homework help. By moving around the borough, the Pop-Up Youth Zone would reach communities that currently lack activities, ensuring that all young people have access to opportunities for fun, creativity, and connection.

Alongside this, I would introduce a smaller but equally meaningful project: the “Kindness Wall.” Every school in Redbridge could have a large board where students write kind messages, positive thoughts, or words of encouragement on sticky notes. This simple, low-cost idea would spread positivity, boost confidence, and help tackle bullying by promoting friendship and respect. A Kindness Wall would remind students daily that kindness is powerful and that small acts can make a big difference.

Finally, to ensure that young people’s voices are truly heard, I would establish a “Speak Up Squad” in schools. This group of students would gather ideas, concerns, and suggestions from their classmates and share them with me. We could meet once a month to discuss what is happening in our schools and communities. With just a meeting space and some snacks, this initiative would cost very little but have a huge impact. By working together, listening, and speaking up, I believe we can make Redbridge a better, brighter place for all young people.

• My Pop-Up Youth Zone makes everyone safe and welcome
• The Kindness Wall helps everyone feel safe and happy in school
• My “Speak Up Squad” will help improve young voices in Redbridge

Shakirah Ahmed

Youth poverty is destroying lives in Redbridge right now. Students are going hungry at lunch, missing trips they cannot afford, wearing damaged uniforms because families are struggling with basic necessities. The shame isolates them and damages their education, mental health, and futures. I will work with Redbridge Council and local businesses to promote access to emergency grants for uniforms, school equipment, and essential costs. I will campaign to end lunch debt shaming and promote youth activities that are genuinely free with no hidden costs. Every young person deserves the basics without humiliation. 

Discrimination happens daily in our schools and streets. Young people face racism, homophobia, ableism, sexism, and prejudice that often goes unchallenged. Being different should not make you a target. I will campaign for equality education in schools that genuinely challenges prejudice and changes behaviour, including proper education on gender equality, discrimination and respect. I will promote safe reporting systems for discrimination and proper support for victims. Working with youth groups, I will create peer-led equality programmes holding our community accountable. True equality requires action, not just words. 

Youth voice matters but often gets lost between consultation and action. I will establish regular forums connecting young people directly with decision makers, ensuring our concerns lead to clear outcomes. I will work to strengthen youth representation in discussions about services that affect us. I will create a feedback system showing young people which recommendations are being acted on and why. Transparent communication builds trust and ensure youth voice creates real change in Redbridge. 

• Youth poverty: Promote emergency grants for essentials, scrap lunch debt shame, make activities free 
• Tackle discrimination and gender inequality: safe reporting, real consequences, equality education 
• Strengthen youth voice: direct forums with decision makers & transparent feedback on our concerns 

Redbridge Youth Council

Get involved

Join the Youth Council and make a difference to your borough. We want to give young people, aged 11 to 19, in Redbridge a say on the issues that matter to them and a chance to have their voice heard. As a member of the Youth Council, you will get involved in a number of campaigns. Some recent campaigns include raising awareness of mental health in schools, writing guidelines for schools about sexual harassment and looking at raising awareness about gangs and knife culture. You do not have to be elected to be a member of the Youth Council, just come along.

We meet at Redbridge Town Hall every Monday evening during term-time.  If you’d like to attend please contact us or visit our get involved page. During our sessions we discuss things that matter to you and other young people in Redbridge.  We also have guests from various external agencies such as Kooth, Via and CATTs (Cancer Awareness for Teens and Twenties).  The meetings are run, with your help, by our MYPs.

Redbridge - Members of Youth Parliament

Meet your elected Redbridge Youth Members of Parliament (MYP)  and Deputy Youth Member of  Parliament (DYMP) for 2024/2026

In February 2024 over, 11,000 young people aged 11-18, voted in the Redbridge Youth Elections. Here, the 3 successful candidates write about what they plan to do  over their 2-year term in office.

Anusha Hossain - MYP

My initiative, targets youth food poverty through school programs promoting free meals and reducing waste. Partnering with local businesses, I aim to ensure no young person goes hungry. I advocate for mental health prioritisation and a creative, skill-focused education system, offering career exploration, mentoring, and life skills. To combat domestic and child abuse, I propose trauma-informed training in schools. As a Member of the Youth Parliament, I'm dedicated to implementing these changes in Redbridge, my home. Together, we can reshape youth narratives, provide support, and break the cycle of abuse, fostering a healthier, more empowered community.

Yusuf Shobair - MYP

Redbridge faces a pressing, youth mental health crisis. My strategy encourages all Redbridge Schools to adopt the 'Watch Your Language' program or similar. Implementing a rewards/sanctions system to deter bullying and fostering a positive environment. I'll organise stress-relief and exam workshops, extracurricular activities, and peer mentorship programs. This comprehensive education package will include form time activities, forums, and engaging events to create a mentally healthier Redbridge.

In collaboration with local authorities, schools, ‘CFR’ Ambassadors and police, I'll amplify street safety awareness. Sanctions/rewards programs will target deviant behaviours like vaping and grooming by gangs. Safety measures include partnering with the police, schools and Transport for London to make public transport safer. Teaming up with local businesses, we'll establish certified safe zones with Bystander training programs, with Community Safety. The lighting up of risky areas and implementing cameras will further ensure our youth's safety.

Disadvantaged students bear the brunt of fuel poverty. I'll collaborate with local businesses, support groups, and charities to address this through inclusive opportunities and activities. Utilising Redbridge's social media, I'll promote events, fostering a sense of community. Engagement with Hainault Youth Centre and free opportunity providers will amplify our impact on youth, addressing fuel poverty and fostering inclusivity.

Inaaya Ijaz - DMYP

As a environmentalist, my mission is to make all schools Plastic Clever. I've already pioneered this initiative at my school by removing all single-use plastic bottles. I believe it's crucial for our generation to address this now, to avoid consequences later.

As a student who recently selected GCSE subjects, I realised the importance of connecting with universities earlier to explore potential career paths before making important decisions.

I believe in learning power beyond the classroom through national and international trips, to enrich our knowledge of the world and diverse cultures.

Manifesto Projects

Careers Workshops and Panel Event   

 As the elected Youth Member of Parliament (MYP), one of my longstanding commitments has been to create genuine opportunities for young people to explore their future career paths. - Anusha Hossain

This commitment became a reality with the delivery of the first-ever Youth Council Careers Event, a project I have been passionate about since early in my term.

Working alongside two exceptional local organisations, Little Dreams and The Big Meet, I had the privilege of co-hosting an afternoon designed to inspire, empower, and inform young people about the many professional routes available to them. Both organisations were invaluable partners throughout the planning process, helping us bring together an outstanding group of 15 volunteers who are professionals from an impressive range of sectors. Our experts represented fields such as medicine and GP training, NHS management, engineering in the oil industry, strategy and innovation consulting, civil service and digital roles, chartered accountancy, trading, advertising and media, education, entrepreneurship, politics, and television hosting. Their willingness to give up their time demonstrated the strength of community spirit and the importance of investing in the next generation.

During the event, I welcomed attendees and introduced a programme built around meaningful interaction. Students took part in four 20-minute networking rotations, moving from table to table to speak directly with professionals, ask questions, and explore industries they may never have considered before. The energy in the room was incredible, curious minds, brilliant conversations, and a real sense of possibility.

The afternoon also featured a live juice bar demonstration, followed by a panel Question & Answer session where we put attendees’ most popular questions to our guest experts. The insights shared were thoughtful, honest, and deeply encouraging. Delivering this careers event has been one of the most rewarding moments of my time as a MYP It reflects my commitment to widening access, expanding horizons, and ensuring young people have the guidance and inspiration they need to pursue their ambitions.

I am sincerely grateful to Little Dreams, The Big Meet, the Youth Service and all our volunteers for making this vision a reality, and to every young person who took part. Your enthusiasm made the event truly memorable. This event marks a significant step forward for the Youth Council, and I’m proud to continue championing opportunities that help shape brighter futures.

 

Youth Achievement Awards Evening

I’m honored to have made history with this event and hope future MYPs continue this new tradition - Anusha Hossain

Being the Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) for Redbridge has been one of the greatest things that ever occurred to me. The role has opened up my eyes to the chance of speaking for young people across our borough, to listen to their suggestions, speak on their behalf, and make their voices heard. With that privilege comes enormous responsibility, especially in coming up with initiatives that empower and inspire others 

That feeling of responsibility encouraged me to organise Redbridge's Youth Academic Achievement Awards, a first-of-its-kind event to recognise student’s outstanding academic achievement. There were over 300 attendees, including students from across Redbridge secondary schools sixth forms, and their families. 

We recognised three students for exceptional GCSE performance, one for exceptional progress, three for exceptional A-Level performance, and one for A-Level progress from each school. The evening celebrated not only academic excellence but also resilience and dedication. Guests enjoyed light refreshments and performances by two talented pianists. It was a proud moment for Redbridge; a sign that our borough truly values the achievements of its young people. I’m honored to have made history with this event and hope future MYPs continue this new tradition. 

As it is nearly the end of my term, I'm excited for the emergence of the next generation of young leaders. The nominations for the next Youth Elections are open until November 10th and I want to encourage all young people aged between 11 and 18 to have their say. 

Being a MYP and a member of the Redbridge Youth Council is a great way to be the change. The Council allows young people to voice their opinions on issues that affect them most: education, mental health, safety, and the environment. 

In February 2024, more than 11,000 young people voted in the Redbridge Youth Elections, a powerful reminder of how strong and influential youth voices can be. I hope next year’s election will be just as impactful, providing another opportunity for young leaders to step forward and take on this important responsibility. MYPs serve a two-year term, during which they focus on three key manifesto points that guide their work and drive meaningful change. To serve as a MYP means representing the young people of your borough in the House of Commons and creating initiatives that make a lasting difference in people’s lives. I wish every candidate the very best of luck.

 

Youth Police Football Match 

"It was inspiring to see so many young people come together – not only to enjoy football, but to take part in meaningful conversations with the police, youth services and partners." - Yusuf Shobair 

The recent Youth Police football match at Loxford Leisure Centre was a powerful example of what happens when leaders listen and communities come together. Around 40 young people took part in an afternoon that combined sport, conversation and trust-building between young people, police, and community partners.

As Youth MP for Redbridge, one of my manifesto commitments has been to create more opportunities for education around street safety, and this event directly reflected that promise. Too often, young people – particularly those from minority backgrounds – feel distant from power, misrepresented, or misunderstood. Stop and search, misrepresentation, and community tensions are very real issues. But what I witnessed at this event was different: officers and young people meeting as equals, talking honestly about difficult topics, and then sharing the same pitch.

The football match was more than just a game. It showed the human side of policing, created space for conversations about crime and safety, and most importantly, left young people with a sense of being valued and listened to.

A special thank you must go to Superintendent Claire McCarthy for her leadership, Redbridge Youth Service, the team at Loxford Leisure Centre, Leyton Orient for bringing their U18 side, and the youth workers and police officers who gave their time and energy.

This event demonstrates what my role is truly about: not just words, but action. Representing over 30,000 young people in Redbridge means listening to concerns, working with partners, and making sure promises become reality. For those who doubt whether youth voice makes a difference – this event proves it can. Cllr Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, added: “This event marks a continued commitment by Redbridge Council and its partners to foster meaningful engagement, promote safety, and build trust within the community. It is vital that we provide opportunities, like this event and our regular MegaMix programme, during the school holidays for young people to unwind through sport and self-expression. Equally important is creating safe spaces where they can speak openly with council and police officers about issues affecting their lives.” Superintendent Clare McCarthy, Head of Neighbourhood Policing, said: “Playing sports and adding competitive matches is a great way to engage with young people who may ordinarily choose not to speak with police. These interactions helped officers show their human side, bridge the gap, and build stronger relationships with the next generation.”

Police Youth Engagement Event

 

Ilford Recorder Articles 

One of the opportunities that are offered to Youth Council members, is to write an article for the Ilford Recorder Community Column. 

December 2025 - Careers Workshop and Panel Event

As the elected Youth Member of Parliament (MYP), one of my longstanding commitments has been to create genuine opportunities for young people to explore their future career paths. This commitment became a reality with the delivery of the first-ever Youth Council Careers Event, a project I have been passionate about since early in my term.

Working alongside two exceptional local organisations, Little Dreams and The Big Meet, I had the privilege of co-hosting an afternoon designed to inspire, empower, and inform young people about the many professional routes available to them. Both organisations were invaluable partners throughout the planning process, helping us bring together an outstanding group of 15 volunteers who are professionals from an impressive range of sectors. Our experts represented fields such as medicine and GP training, NHS management, engineering in the oil industry, strategy and innovation consulting, civil service and digital roles, chartered accountancy, trading, advertising and media, education, entrepreneurship, politics, and television hosting. Their willingness to give up their time demonstrated the strength of community spirit and the importance of investing in the next generation.

During the event, I welcomed attendees and introduced a programme built around meaningful interaction. Students took part in four 20-minute networking rotations, moving from table to table to speak directly with professionals, ask questions, and explore industries they may never have considered before. The energy in the room was incredible, curious minds, brilliant conversations, and a real sense of possibility.

The afternoon also featured a live juice bar demonstration, followed by a panel Question & Answer session where we put attendees’ most popular questions to our guest experts. The insights shared were thoughtful, honest, and deeply encouraging. Delivering this careers event has been one of the most rewarding moments of my time as a MYP It reflects my commitment to widening access, expanding horizons, and ensuring young people have the guidance and inspiration they need to pursue their ambitions.

I am sincerely grateful to Little Dreams, The Big Meet, the Youth Service and all our volunteers for making this vision a reality, and to every young person who took part. Your enthusiasm made the event truly memorable. This event marks a significant step forward for the Youth Council, and I’m proud to continue championing opportunities that help shape brighter futures.

For more information about joining Youth Council email Youth.Council@Redbridge.gov.uk

October 2025 - Youth Achievement Awards Event

Being the Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) for Redbridge has been one of the greatest things that ever occurred to me. The role has opened up my eyes to the chance of speaking for young people across our borough, to listen to their suggestions, speak on their behalf, and make their voices heard. With that privilege comes enormous responsibility, especially in coming up with initiatives that empower and inspire others 

That feeling of responsibility encouraged me to organise Redbridge's Youth Academic Achievement Awards, a first-of-its-kind event to recognise student’s outstanding academic achievement. There were over 300 attendees, including students from across Redbridge secondary schools sixth forms, and their families. 

We recognised three students for exceptional GCSE performance, one for exceptional progress, three for exceptional A-Level performance, and one for A-Level progress from each school. The evening celebrated not only academic excellence but also resilience and dedication. Guests enjoyed light refreshments and performances by two talented pianists. It was a proud moment for Redbridge; a sign that our borough truly values the achievements of its young people. I’m honoured to have made history with this event and hope future MYPs continue this new tradition. 

As it is nearly the end of my term, I'm excited for the emergence of the next generation of young leaders. The nominations for the next Youth Elections are open until November 10th and I want to encourage all young people aged between 11 and 18 to have their say. 

Being a MYP and a member of the Redbridge Youth Council is a great way to be the change. The Council allows young people to voice their opinions on issues that affect them most: education, mental health, safety, and the environment. 

In February 2024, more than 11,000 young people voted in the Redbridge Youth Elections, a powerful reminder of how strong and influential youth voices can be. I hope next year’s election will be just as impactful, providing another opportunity for young leaders to step forward and take on this important responsibility. MYPs serve a two-year term, during which they focus on three key manifesto points that guide their work and drive meaningful change. To serve as a MYP means representing the young people of your borough in the House of Commons and creating initiatives that make a lasting difference in people’s lives. I wish every candidate the very best of luck.

Anusha Hossain Member of Youth Parliament (MYP)

Ilford Recorder e-Edition 6th November 2025 - page 10

August 2025 - Youth Council update

For a long time now, Redbridge Youth Council has been working hard to ensure the voices of young people across our borough are heard and valued. 

One of our biggest achievements has been gathering a wide range of opinions from youth all over Redbridge, particularly around the topic of safety and how young people, can build a better relationship with our local Police. Through the Safer Neighbourhood Board, we are actively involved in discussions that focus on improving communication and trust between youth and law enforcement, helping to bridge that gap that so often gets overlooked. 

We have had discussions about how to make our social media platforms and official website more appealing and engaging, so we can reach more young people and grow our membership.

What makes our Youth Council really effective is the constant feedback we receive from Redbridge Officers and partner organisations, giving us updates, listening to our views, and involving us in upcoming projects that matter. 

Our MYPs are fully committed to their roles and manifesto promises, working hand-in-hand with us on projects that aim to improve life for young people. Pushing for more eco-friendly schools by going plastic-free or raising awareness on key issues, we’re working together to make our Borough better.

We’re working to make our meetings even more inclusive and representative of different voices across the Borough. Our campaigns are shaped by what we hear from other young people, so we are always taking in fresh ideas. We show up, contribute, and try our best to create real change, no matter how big or small.

Joining Redbridge Youth Council is honestly one of the best things you could do if you’re passionate about improving your community. It’s not just about talking, it’s about taking action, being involved in genuine change, and working on projects that actually make a difference. Attending meetings, you get access to some amazing opportunities. It’s such a great way to meet people from all walks of life who are just as passionate as you are. We’ve created this safe space where no one judges you, everyone’s voice counts, and we all uplift each other. Whether you’re confident or a bit shy, there’s always support, and over time you build confidence without even realising it. 

If you want to be part of Youth Council – email Youth.Council@redbridge.gov.uk and we will let you know about where we meet each week.

-Mariam Attarwala

July 2025 - MYPs Conference 

This past weekend 25^th to 27^th July, I had the honour of attending the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) Annual Conference at the University of Sussex, a dynamic gathering designed to amplify the voices of young people from across the UK. From the moment I arrived on Friday afternoon, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation as Youth MPs came together for a weekend of debate, policy-making, and collaboration. The conference opened with an inspiring ceremony. We heard from the Vice Chancellor of the University, who spoke passionately about youth-led change, followed by the CEO of the National Youth Agency, who reminded us of our vital role in shaping the future. A ministerial message from the Minister for Sports, Media, Civil Society and Youth reinforced the government's support for our work.

I joined the Home Affairs, Justice and Defence Committee. Our first session introduced the key policy areas for the weekend, setting the tone for rich and thoughtful discussions. That evening, we enjoyed a group dinner followed by a lively quiz testing both general knowledge and the history of the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP).

Saturday was intense and rewarding. After breakfast, we began with regional meetings and guest speaker sessions, then resumed our committee focus, tackling one of the most urgent issues facing young people today: knife crime. Our group conducted thorough research, gathering national data, analysing causes, and assessing government responses. We produced documents highlighting the scale of the problem and proposed clear, practical solutions. These included increasing investment in youth services, delivering targeted education in schools, and enhancing community policing.

Following a short lunch break, we presented our findings and discussed resolutions. The session was filled with powerful insights, and the sense of shared purpose was clear. That evening, we celebrated our progress at the UKYP Summer Social, a well-earned DJ summer party that brought everyone together.

On Sunday, we met for breakfast and finalised our committee’s presentation. It was our opportunity to consolidate everything we had achieved and present our recommendations to all Youth MPs. The weekend concluded with UK-wide plenary updates and a closing lunch. As I left Sussex, I felt energised and inspired. This was more than a conference; it was a powerful reminder of what young people can accomplish when given the platform and support to lead.

If you are interested in joining the Youth Council – please email Youth.Council@Redbridge.gov.uk

Anusha Hossain Member of Youth Parliament (MYP)

Child Friendly Redbridge (CFR) Ambassadors 

Redbridge understands how important young people are and so we are working with UNICEF and Redbridge young people known as Ambassadors to become a Child Friendly Borough. For more information about this check out the Child Friendly Redbridge Ambassador homepage. 

For more information about the wider programme check out the Child Friendly Redbridge website.

Redbridge Youth on Instagram

For all our news follow 'Redbridge Youth' on Instagram.  Our page will provide you with everything you need to know about youth services and being young in Redbridge.

We will bring you information on a range of things including:

• youth service activities
• leisure and sporting activities
• education
• training and job opportunities and much more

We want this to become the place where you get all of the information you need as a young person in Redbridge.

Get in touch with us

 Contact us at youth.council@redbridge.gov.uk