Engaging Oxfordshire's youth in local politics with the help of pizza
Over a hundred young people joined local MPs and politicians to discuss the issues that matter most to them at three pizza and politics events held across the county.
The events, part of Oxfordshire County Council’s Future Generations Programme, are designed to help those aged 11 to 18 understand local democracy and encourage them to participate in politics.
Following the success of the first pilot event back in November, young people were joined at County Hall in Oxford, Edmonds Park Pavillion in Didcot and Banbury Children and Family Centre by county council directors and councillors from across the political spectrum in Oxfordshire who shared their experiences.
MP for Didcot and Wantage, Olly Glover, and MP for Banbury, Sean Woodcock, also took part in the events, providing an overview of their roles as MPs and answering the young people’s questions.
Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, who attended the Oxford and Banbury events, said: “I would like to thank our young people from across Oxfordshire who attended our pizza and politics events across the county. I was inspired by their questions and contributions, which were insightful and eye-opening, and will ensure that young people's voices continue to be heard as part of our future generations programme of work.”
The agenda included an introduction to local and national government, a vibrant question and answer panel session between young people and politicians, and themed discussions.
Participants had the opportunity to ask questions throughout, discuss important issues, and share their thoughts on various topics linked to different services the county council provides.
The events form part of the county council's Future Generations work, which seeks to put the wellbeing of future generations at the heart of all decision making.
Councillors passed a motion back in March 2023 with cross party support setting out a commitment to considering the wellbeing of Future Generations in all decision making.
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