More than 100 young people from across Warwickshire came together for a day of inspiring conversations, new experiences and opportunities to have their say at the Our Voice, Our Warwickshire Youth...
More than 100 young people from across Warwickshire came together for a day of inspiring conversations, new experiences and opportunities to have their say at the Our Voice, Our Warwickshire Youth Conference 2026.
Held on Friday 30 October at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Ansty Park, the event brought young people together to explore issues that matter to them, develop new skills, share their ideas and connect with others.
Young people played a key role in shaping the conference, with members of Warwickshire youth forums helping to plan the programme and identify topics that matter most to their peers, ensuring youth voice remained at the heart of the day.
Throughout the conference, young people were involved in a range of interactive workshops covering topics including mental health and wellbeing, CPR, budgeting, future employment, self-identity, and planning for the future. The sessions encouraged young people to ask questions, share experiences and develop practical skills to support them in everyday life.
Alongside the workshops, a lively activity zone featured a digital graffiti wall, dance machine, caricaturist and information stalls, giving young people opportunities to have fun, meet new people and discover local services and activities.
Feedback from participants reflected the positive atmosphere throughout the day, with young people describing the conference as 'amazing', 'interactive', 'informative' and 'welcoming'.
One young person describing the workshops said: "They were incredibly engaging and thought provoking. Excellent instruction."
Councillor Wayne Briggs, Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND, said: " This year's Warwickshire Youth Conference has been a fantastic success and a wonderful example of what we are trying to achieve through our Recalibrating Warwickshire Council Plan.
"It has been inspiring to see so many young people come together to discuss the issues that matter most to them and contribute their perspectives.
"I'd like to thank everyone who took part and helped make the conference such a success. The ideas and discussions from the day will help us continue our journey towards building brighter futures for children and young people across Warwickshire, creating a county where they can thrive and achieve their potential.”
John Coleman, Executive Director for Children and Families at Warwickshire County Council, added: " Creating a Child Friendly Warwickshire means making sure children and young people are not only listened to, but have genuine opportunities to influence the decisions, services and opportunities that affect their lives.
"The Youth Conference is a great example of this in action. It is particularly encouraging to see young people taking an active role in planning the event, exploring important topics and supporting one another throughout the day.
"By continuing to work alongside young people, we can better understand their experiences and aspirations, helping us shape services that reflect their needs and ambitions."
The conference is part of Warwickshire County Council's ongoing commitment to a Child Friendly Warwickshire, where children and young people are supported to be heard, safe, healthy, skilled and happy.
Through initiatives such as the Youth Conference and Warwickshire Youth Council, young people are encouraged to share their views, influence decisions and play an active role in shaping their communities.
The ideas and feedback gathered during the event will help inform future opportunities for young people to get involved and have their voices heard.
To find out more about Child Friendly Warwickshire and opportunities for young people, visit: https://www.childfriendlywarwickshire.co.uk/