The Brent Youth Parliament, a council for young people aged 10-19 who live or study in Brent, has been actively campaigning on issues that affect their community
The Brent Youth Parliament has taken the lead in addressing the growing issue of vaping among young people in the borough. The youth-led initiative has garnered attention and support from local authorities, highlighting the importance of involving young voices in decision-making.
The Brent Youth Parliament, a council for young people aged 10-19 who live or study in Brent, has been actively campaigning on issues that affect their community. This year, their primary concern has been the sale of vapes containing illegal substances to young people. Representatives from the Brent Youth Council have held several meetings with the police, set up a stall at the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board meeting, and lobbied the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee to raise awareness of the issue with council leaders.
In 2024, over 3,000 people in Brent participated in the UK Youth Parliament’s Make Your Mark ballot, voting for crime and safety as the top issue. This grassroots movement has empowered young people to take a stand against the harmful effects of vaping, particularly when illegal substances are involved.
Dr Ketan Sheth, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, praised the efforts of the young people involved. “The growing trend of vaping among young people is concerning, especially when illegal substances are involved. I am incredibly proud of the young people in Brent who have brought this issue to our attention and for all their contributions to the Committee,” he said.
Kenechi Ezeajughi, Deputy Chair of Brent Youth Parliament, emphasised the importance of involving young people in local decision-making. “We wanted to raise awareness to the council of the different safety and health issues around young people vaping,” he said. “It’s imperative that young people are actively involved in local decision-making so that we have a say on issues that affect us. We found the experience empowering because we were able to influence council policy on an issue that young people in Brent care about.”
In 2024, over 3,000 people in Brent participated in the UK Youth Parliament’s Make Your Mark ballot, voting for crime and safety as the top issue
The Brent Youth Parliament’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Their lobbying has resulted in a recommendation to Brent Council to undertake further research on vaping among young people. Dr Sheth reiterated the importance of addressing the issue, stating, “We know that people who vape are more likely to have breathing difficulties than those who don’t. The growing trend of vaping among young people is concerning, especially when illegal substances are involved. I am incredibly proud of the young people in Brent who have brought this issue to our attention and for all their contributions to the Committee.”
The Brent Youth Parliament’s involvement in the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee has set a precedent for youth participation in local governance. Their proactive approach has raised awareness of a critical health issue and demonstrated the power of young voices in shaping local policies.
The growing trend of vaping among young people is concerning, especially when illegal substances are involved. I am incredibly proud of the young people in Brent who have brought this issue to our attention and for all their contributions to the Committee.
Dr Ketan Sheth, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee
Kenechi Ezeajughi expressed his hope for increased youth involvement in local democracy. “It’s great to be active members of the Committee. We would love to see more young people involved in local democracy!” he said.
The Brent Youth Parliament’s success in addressing the vaping crisis inspires young people across the country.
Their dedication and commitment to improving the health and safety of their community highlight the importance of involving young voices in local decision-making processes. As the Brent Youth Parliament continues to advocate for issues that matter to young people, their efforts remind us of the power of youth-led initiatives in shaping a better future.
