06.04.10
Young people from Watford YMCA grill Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg
On the day the election was called – April 6th – Watford YMCA hosted a Q&A session for young people with Lib Dem leader, Nick Clegg. Young people from all over Hertfordshire and surrounding counties took part in the event, including young people from Central Herts YMCA and Milton Keynes YMCA.
Julia Collar, Head of Youth Development at Watford YMCA said: “We are extremely pleased to have been able to give young people the opportunity to talk to a senior politician, particularly on such an important day. The young people asked some really skilful questions and the majority came away with a real determination to find out what other political parties have to offer them and to exercise their right to vote on May 6th, though they were disappointed they didn’t get a tour of the big yellow Battle Bus!”
Leila Panju meets Nick Clegg and Sal Brinton
Binita Meha found that footage of her asking her question was used repeatedly on all the major news channels during the afternoon and evening after the event. Binita said seeing her question on television “ was very exciting for me. Thank you for organising yesterday's event. I found it very interesting and it was nice to meet Nick Clegg, get to shake his hand and get a photo for facebook!”
Anthony Baines, a young person from Parmiters School, said: “It was a great event and a great experience and a great day!!! I found it incredibly interesting and engaging and thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Central Herts YMCA is currently leading a youth justice campaign on behalf YMCA England and in association with YMCAs and other youth justice groups around the country. Young people from the Central Herts YMCA campaign group had the opportunity to ask Nick Clegg two questions in relation to their work and were able to use this experience at the YMCA’s recent National Assembly to demonstrate how their work is progressing. The group will be attending the United Nations later this year to lobby for improve rehabilitation for young offenders. To find out more visit www.youthjusticeinaction.org
Heidi Rochford from Central Herts YMCA and members of the Youth Justice in Action Group
