About The Project
The Youth Participation and Engagement project provides opportunities for young people to shape the future of Sutton through meaningful involvement in local decision-making. Open to young people aged 11–18, or up to 25 for those with additional needs or who are care leavers, the programme brings together diverse young people from across the borough to share their views, develop new skills and make a difference.
What We Do
At the heart of the programme are the Young Commissioners, a diverse group of young volunteers who play a leading role in our youth participation work. Meeting fortnightly during term time, they represent the voice of Sutton’s young people and work closely with local decision-makers, including the council, NHS, police, charities and community organisations. Young Commissioners help shape services, influence decisions, lead campaigns and support projects that improve the lives of young people across the borough.
Supporting this work are the Sutton Youth Boards, which bring young people together throughout the year in smaller workshop-style sessions focused on key topics such as mental health, equality, diversity and inclusion, safety, anti-racism and digital wellbeing. These sessions provide opportunities for young people to share their views directly with professionals and decision-makers, helping to shape local services and identify solutions to issues affecting their communities.
The annual Sutton Youth Summit provides a borough-wide opportunity for even more young people to get involved. Through activities, performances, workshops and discussions, young people can learn about local opportunities, connect with organisations, share their experiences and contribute ideas for positive change. Together, these activities ensure that young people’s voices are heard and valued at every level of local decision-making.
Beneficiary Feedback
"Being a Young Commissioner has given me confidence to speak up, meet people from different schools and backgrounds, and make a real difference to issues that matter to young people in Sutton."Young Commissioner
Get Involved
If you are aged 11–18, or up to 25 with additional needs or as a care leaver, and live or study in the London Borough of Sutton, we would love to hear from you. Whether you want to attend a Youth Summit, join a Youth Board meeting or become a Young Commissioner, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, develop new skills and make a positive difference in your community.
To find out more about upcoming opportunities or to register your interest, please contact the Youth Participation Team at youngcommissioners@vcsutton.org.uk.
