Young voices took centre stage in local democracy as the Brent Youth Parliament (BYP) led discussions at the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, focusing on the rising concern of vapes containing illegal substances being sold to young people.
Members of the Brent Youth Council actively engaged with authorities, holding meetings with police, setting up an awareness stall at the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board meeting, and lobbying council leaders to take action. Their efforts resulted in vaping being formally added to the Scrutiny Committee’s agenda, prompting further research into its impact on young people.
The Brent Youth Parliament represents young people aged 10-19 who live or study in the borough. Each year, they campaign on key issues chosen by their peers. In 2024, over 3,000 young people in Brent participated in the UK Youth Parliament’s Make Your Mark ballot, selecting crime and safety as their top priority.
Kenechi Ezeajughi, Deputy Chair of Brent Youth Parliament, said:
“We wanted to highlight the safety and health risks of vaping among young people and ensure the council takes action. It’s crucial for young people to be part of decision-making on issues that directly affect us. This experience has been empowering, and we hope more young people get involved in local democracy.”
The Scrutiny Committee, chaired by Councillor Dr Ketan Sheth, acknowledged the concerns raised by the youth representatives.
“The rise in vaping among young people, especially when it involves illegal substances, is alarming. People who vape are more likely to experience breathing issues, and we need to address this growing trend. I commend the young people of Brent for bringing this issue to the forefront and making their voices heard.”
As a result of the lobbying efforts, the Brent Council has been urged to conduct further research on youth vaping and its associated risks.
If you’re a young person in Brent and want to share your views on issues affecting your community, contact byp@brent.gov.uk to get involved.
