Have your say and help shape future leisure opportunities for young people in West Sussex
West Sussex County Council is inviting people to help shape the future of leisure and recreational services, activities and opportunities for young people in the county.
Responses will play an important role in developing a new five-year Young People’s Strategy, that aims to improve opportunities locally that support young people’s health, wellbeing and development.
HAVE YOUR SAY: West Sussex Young People’s Strategy 2027-2032
The strategy will focus on 11 to 19-year-olds, and up to age 25 for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It will cover a broad range of activities outside the classroom, school, college or work. These will include sports, arts and culture, youth clubs, outdoor activities, volunteering and community-based opportunities.
Councillor Sam Raby, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “We want to hear from as many people as possible, especially young people themselves, as we develop our new Young People’s Strategy for West Sussex.
“This survey is a great opportunity for young people, families and those who work with them to tell us what is important to them, what opportunities they value most, and what they would like to see in the future.
“Their views will play a vital role in helping us shape a strategy that supports young people to thrive, fulfil their potential and enjoy high-quality opportunities in their communities.”
The council has created two surveys, through which people can share their views. One survey is for young people, and the other is for anyone who wants to share their views, such as parents and carers, schools, community organisations, health and social care services and activity providers.
People are asked to provide feedback on six proposed priorities:
- Access, availability and awareness
- Equity, inclusion and belonging
- Safe, trusted and youth-friendly environments
- Quality opportunities and positive futures
- Youth voice and empowerment
- Connected communities, partnerships and sustainability
The West Sussex Young People’s Strategy 2027-2032 will focus on how young people, communities, leisure providers, schools, voluntary and community organisations, health partners, local authorities and other partners can work together to improve access to activities and opportunities that support positive health and wellbeing, help young people develop skills and confidence, build relationships, feel connected to their communities, achieve their potential and thrive.
Take part by visiting the West Sussex Young People’s Strategy 2027-2032: Have Your Say page on Your Voice West Sussex.
The survey will close at 11.55pm on 26 October.
The draft Young People’s Strategy 2027-2032 is expected to be published later this year for wider public consultation.
For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk.
For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.
