Fifty Young Wales volunteers (aged 11-25) from across Wales attended a residential event at Glan-llyn Residential Centre, Bala, from 26th to 28th February.

During the event, they engaged with Dawn Bowden MS, Minister for Children and Social Care, discussing children’s rights and key issues affecting them. They also participated in workshops with the Information Commissioner’s Office on privacy, the Welsh Government on Learner Transport, and the Electoral Commission on disinformation and misinformation.

Beyond discussions, attendees enjoyed outdoor activities like canoeing, archery, swimming, tai chi and indoor games.

The residential provided a vital platform for youth volunteers to voice their opinions and connect directly with policymakers.

Children and Social Care Minister, Dawn Bowden said:

“It has been great to hear from young people on my visits in Bala and Newtown on issues that matter to them and to see how passionate they are about them."

“The realisation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is part of the culture of Wales; part of who we are as a country. We want a Wales where every child knows that they have rights, understands what they mean and has support to be able to exercise them."

“What young people have to say is important and their opinions matter.”

A Young Wales volunteer said:

“It was a great opportunity to have my voice and opinions heard.”

“It was great that the Minister came round the tables to talk with each group”.

To learn more about how young people can get involved, visit our website here.

You can also contact the team directly by emailing us here.