Call for young Cumbrians to have their say on climate change

Cumbria currently only has one representative in the Northwest Net Zero Youth Network which is organising a conference led by young people being held at Salford University on November 25 this year.

Kendal teen Hannah Wright, 19, who has been part of the network for the past year, is one of 15 young people currently designing and shaping the conference that will discuss topics including renewable energy, green jobs, and the environment.

Ms Wright said: “I joined the network because I am passionate about climate change and wanted my voice to be heard.

“I feel angry and upset that our government continues to focus on short-term economic gains instead of long-term environmental benefits and continues to make promises that aren't met with action.

Hannah Wright (Image: Hannah Wright)

“By being part of the network, I’m able to focus on my passion for green spaces and do something to help create a better climate.

“We’ve created a report on young people's concerns about green spaces which we presented to mayors in the north-west region, and we have been in discussion with decision makers to try and get young people's voices heard.”

She added: “I’m enjoying being part of the network and we’re busy planning the conference.

“I’ve learned how to create workshops and plan a large event and I’m looking forward to meeting people with the same passion as me.”

Anyone wanting to join the network will be asked to join weekly online meetings with existing members planning the conference and then attend the conference.

Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership is supporting the network to ‘encourage young people in the county to have a greater voice on climate issues’.

They said they would cover conference travel costs for new network members from the county.

Anyone interested in joining or finding out more is asked to contact Lucy or Sarah at Youth Focus on 01744 810 838 or email l.laverty@youthfocusnw.org.uk. 

Free places are also available to attend the conference which is open to any young person accompanied on by an adult/youth worker/leader as well as youth groups and organisations.

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