Last Thursday, the Young Commissioners held their first session since half-term, welcoming three new young people from the borough to try a taster session.

The afternoon kicked off with a celebration as Toby was awarded the next Jack Petchey Achievement Award, nominated by his fellow Young Commissioners and staff, and presented by Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the Council. This award, given to young people who show exceptional dedication and leadership, recognised Toby for his hard work and dedication to the Young Commissioners, even including on his birthday for the Sutton Youth Summit and throughout summer on the Celebrating Sutton's Diversity project. His contributions over the past months that he has been a member, have been invaluable, inspiring the entire group to strive for positive change in the community.

Comments include "He is such a positive young person and so community minded. He really cares about Sutton and through all his numerous volunteer activities he really is improving life here for all sorts of people in his own way. A fantastic attitude for a young person have and long may it continue!"

The session continued with an update from Molly Jordan from Public Health, who shared news about the ongoing vaping campaign, Be Clear About Vaping, a project the Young Commissioners were originally involved in at the starting stages. The group was proud to see the developments in a campaign they kick-started and how it is reaching wider audiences.

Following this, Councillor Barry Lewis, leader of the council, gave an engaging talk about his role and the council's responsibilities. He shared insights into how council funds are allocated to support local projects and services, providing the Young Commissioners with a deeper understanding of local governance and there was a lively Q&A session with the Young Commissioners.

Along with regular meetings like this during the term, the Young Commissioners also have bonus sessions during holidays and weekends to interact with the community directly. Over the October half-term break, the Young Commissioners took part in a community litter-picking initiative, the Beddington Park Big Autumn Clear Up in the local park, joining residents from Hong Kong in their efforts to keep the area clean.

Some of the Hong Konger Young Commissioners also participated in a cross cultural meet-up at the Sutton Family Hub with young people from both Hong Kong and Ukraine. The gathering was a celebration of cultural connections and inclusivity, creating an opportunity for shared experiences and strengthening the bonds between different communities.

If you're passionate about making a difference in your community and want to work on meaningful projects like the vaping campaign, consider becoming a Young Commissioner! This is a fantastic opportunity to be involved in local decision-making, develop new skills, and make new friends along the way.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a Young Commissioner, please get in touch with the Young Commissioner coordinator by emailing youngcommissioners@vcsutton.org.uk. You can also give us your details here and one of the team will be in touch soon.  

To hear more about the Young Commissioners' Adventures, follow their Instagram page and more stories here.