Young people from across Rhondda Cynon Taf are continuing to shape the future of their communities through their involvement in the Rhondda Cynon Taf County Youth Forum, providing a platform for young residents to discuss issues that matter most to them and influence local decision-making.
What is the County Youth Forum?
The County Youth Forum brings together passionate and committed young people from across the county borough, creating opportunities for them to share their views, develop leadership skills and work alongside elected members, Council officers and partner organisations on matters affecting young people.
Through regular meetings, consultations and engagement, forum members play an important role in ensuring that the voices of young people are heard on a wide range of issues including education, wellbeing, the environment, transport, community safety and access to opportunities.
The forum also provides young people with valuable experience in public speaking, teamwork, project development and civic participation, helping to build confidence and empower the next generation of community leaders.
How does it work?
Members of the County Youth Forum are welcomed to the Council Chamber on a regular basis and work closely with the Council's Youth Engagement and Participation Service, contributing to consultations, supporting awareness campaigns and representing the views of their peers on local and national issues.
So far this year, these interactive visits to the heart of democracy in Rhondda Cynon Taf have given hundreds of young people a unique opportunity to learn about local government first-hand. Participants have met Cabinet Members, asked questions about issues that matter to them, and seen how their suggestions have been put into practise.
The programme has proven to be a valuable way of inspiring the next generation of active citizens, helping young people to better understand democratic processes while ensuring they feel empowered to have their say on matters that affect their communities.
You said – we did!
A key message from the County Youth Forum is “You said, we did” - ensuring young people understand that this is not just a talking shop, but democracy in action.
At the latest County Youth Forum, held in the Council Chamber on 2 July, young people from schools across Rhondda Cynon Taf met with Council Leader Ann Crimmings to discuss a range of important issues, including democracy, climate change and flood risk management.
Forum members were reassured that the views and ideas they raised at previous meetings have been shared with Council scrutiny committees and have helped shape their work programmes. Suggestions from the County Youth Forum are also communicated to Council staff across RCT, ensuring that young people's voices are heard throughout the organisation.
Young people also received an update on secondary school meals and were informed about how their feedback has influenced forthcoming menu changes. They were delighted to hear that every suggestion put forward by the County Youth Forum has been incorporated into the new secondary school menus, which will be introduced later this year. The announcement was met with a round of applause, highlighting the positive impact young people can have when their voices are listened to and acted upon.
Councillor Sharon Rees,Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Young People said:
The County Youth Forum is a fantastic example of young people making a positive difference within their communities. The energy, enthusiasm and commitment shown by its members helps ensure that the views of young people are considered in local decision-making and policy development.
We are proud to support a forum that not only gives young people a voice but also provides opportunities for them to develop new skills, build confidence and play an active role in shaping the future of Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Posted on 03/07/2026