A NEW programme is hoping to give Bude’s young people a voice in conversations surrounding the future of the town’s coastline.

Bude-Stratton Town Council has announced that it is supporting a new youth board being launched by Future Coast Bude giving young residents aged 16 to 30 the opportunity to help their community have a say in the future of Bude’s coast.

The youth board will work with the Future Coast Bude team to plan and run community events that ask local people what they want for the future of the coast. Members will receive free training and support. There will also be paid opportunities to take part in project activities, giving young people valuable real-world experience and practical skills in public engagement, event planning, data collection, analysis and report writing.

Bude-Stratton town councillor, Katie Aulsberry-Vockins said: “We’re delighted to support Future Coast Bude’s Youth Board. Opportunities like this for young people in Bude are rare. It’s a chance to gain practical skills, build confidence and learn abilities that can help them in their studies, careers and future community projects.”

Cllr Jeremy Petherick added: “The youth board will play a key role in running events that ask local people what they want for the future of Bude’s coast. Bude-Stratton Town Council is proud to back this initiative and encourage young people to take part and make a real difference in their community while helping ensure local voices are heard.”

Training includes one evening session and three weekend day sessions in March with optional planning, workshop delivery and data analysis throughout spring. Members can expect an average commitment of six to 12 hours a month.

Applications are open until February 23. Interested residents can apply by visiting Future Coast Bude on Cornwall Council’s Let’s Talk website. For support with applications, contact Liz Taylor at [email protected]