The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) national network for young councillors met on 23 July 2024 to discuss significant developments and strategies aimed at improving governance through diverse representation and youth engagement.
Luke Trevasksis, chief officer of Morecambe Town Council in Lancashire, attended the meeting to share his journey in local government. With over 15 years of experience, he spoke about his dedication for community projects, such as rebuilding a community centre and creating a dementia-friendly community. His message emphasised the importance of mentorship and the value of diverse perspective in driving positive change.
The meeting also addressed the need for improved training and development for young professionals in the sector. Additionally, the potential benefits of work experience placements were highlighted, with calls for broader promotion of such initiatives.
The next steps identified by the network include scheduling an additional meeting, encouraging entries for the NALC Star Council Awards, and developing a proposal on lowering the voting age.
The meeting reinforced the importance of staying involved in the network and fostering a supportive community to drive forward the sector’s future development.