Council says a big YES to supporting and engaging our local youth

At its August meeting, Cessnock City Council unanimously adopted the Youth Engagement Strategy (YES) which identifies the aspirations of young people about to enter high school through to early adulthood who are living, working or studying across our local government area.

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The YES provides a clear direction for Council over the next four years to support better outcomes for young people. It will contribute to making our region a vibrant place of opportunity where all young people are supported to grow, learn, be safe, belong, work and contribute.

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent, thanked both staff and the community for bringing this strategy to life, which demonstrates Council’s commitment to a brighter future for local young people.

“The best part about the YES is we developed the Strategy in close collaboration with our youth, youth services and the community, with over 650 people participating.”

Feedback from the community informed a list of 60 actions Council will undertake in the key areas of Health and Wellbeing, Recreation, Education and Employment, and Community Participation.

The adoption of the YES has come at a critical time, with COVID-19 posing many new challenges for local young people.

Cessnock City Council’s Youth Services Coordinator, Elki Johnson, said we’re using the information gathered during the YES Consultation to help us better connect with young people.

“We’ve been able to improve our online services thanks to their valuable feedback. Our online content focusses on the four key areas identified in the YES. This includes things like weekly Zoom catch ups, Kahoot! Quizzes, health and wellbeing tips around mental and physical health, sustainability tips, and featuring the interests and talents of local young people.”

“Our Youth Workers also remain available by appointment from Monday to Friday to support young people with their schooling, mental health, the LGBTQIA+ community and for referrals to other services.”

“We encourage young people to connect with our service via the CYCOS Instagram and Facebook pages, email youthcentre@cessnock.nsw.gov.au or by calling 4993 4355,” added Elki

To view the YES and find out more about Council’s Youth Services, visit Council’s website at www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/YES.