Young people came together last Friday to discuss key issues including diversity, binge drinking and immigration at the Ashford Youth Conference at Ashford International Hotel.

The event welcomed students from all eight senior schools in the borough and South Kent College as well as representatives from Ashford Youth Forum, the Ashford Crime and Disorder Partnership, Music For Change, Ashford Borough Council and Damian Green MP.

The conference, aimed at raising awareness on issues affecting the future of young people locally, saw 80 delegates enjoying activities ranging from African song and dance to navigating a room wearing simulation beer goggles.  Questions on immigration were fielded to MP Damian Green and the day was rounded off with a lucky attendee winning an Ipod donated by the Community Safety Partnership.

MP Damian Green, on his Q and A session at the conference said: “The questioners were all well-informed and obviously keen to discuss the issue, showing how important it is for young people to engage constructively in political debate, and for their concerns to be properly aired and listened to.”

Reactions from young people was very positive, with everyone enjoying the interactive sessions, mixing with other schools and soaking up some knowledge and opinion.

William Mowl, 14, of Norton Knatchbull School said:  “It’s been an interesting and educational day.  I’ve learnt a lot about different views on politics, culture and alcohol.”

Toni Thorpe, 17, of South Kent College, said: “I think it’s really important we get to have our say at events like today.  Having access to talk to people like the MP is really good.”

Sammy Botfield, 15, of Homewood School, said:” It’s really made me think.  What Uncle George (Music For Change) was saying about how in Africa everyone says hello to each other, and in England people look at him like he’s weird if he does it is funny.  People should be more open-minded.  Maybe we should change.”

Carol Morton, Ashford Borough Council Youth Projects Co-Ordinator, added: "It has been a really positive day today.  The young people have really engaged and hopefully they’ll all take something positive away.”

Media Release 0120/08

01/05/2008