Shaping the future: young people lead Climate Conversation

Tackling climate change has been highlighted as a key issue for our young people, so it is important we work with them on the solutions.

Transport and littering were the top 2 priorities set out by our young people and they shared their thoughts and feelings about these topics at the Deep Democracy debate at Rochdale Town Hall, working in partnership with the Rochdale Children’s Literature Festival. Deep Democracy is a process for debate as it recognises everyone’s opinions and allows for disagreement in a safe and productive way.

Miranda Webber, Eco Lead at St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, said:

“Our eco team really enjoyed being part of the debate at Rochdale Town Hall. They felt listened to and it hugely improved their public speaking and critical thinking skills. We will certainly be taking part again this year.”

Young people spoke passionately with their peers, acknowledging the borough of Rochdale’s Co-Operative history and how this would play a key role in tackling climate change. They also spoke about co-benefits and how taking climate action could also save people money and improve their health and wellbeing.

As a result of the debate Councillor Tricia Ayrton, deputy leader and portfolio holder for climate change and environment, developed a motion which was presented at the last full council meeting and unanimously passed by all councillors.

Year 6 pupils Yasmine from St John’s, Freddie from St Mary’s and Sabeeha from Moorhouse Academy presented the motion on behalf of Councillor Ayrton at the Full Council meeting.

Councillor Tricia Ayrton said:

“It was very moving to see the 3 young people present the motion to all our councillors.

“Everyone in attendance was really impressed with how they all spoke so confidently and demonstrated the passion they have for climate action in the borough.

“It’s important we continue to show our young people that their voice is important, that deep democracy has a huge impact, we do listen and that we will take action to make real change.”

Now it’s your chance to have your say. We’re inviting everyone who lives, works and plays in the borough of Rochdale to fill out the 5 questions in the ‘Climate Change Action Plan’ survey.

The survey, which is available until Thursday, 31 October 2024, will help the council understand what is important to you, what you want to see in your area and how the council can support you to take climate action.