Places are filling up fast for the 2019 Young Local Authority of the Year (3rd to 5th April). In the last few days Cambridge, Wigan, Barnsley and East Lindsey councils have joined the line-up. If you are intending to take part, book now! Click here for our brochure with full details.
Booking is open now for both 2019 Young England and Wales Programmes. The dates are 30th April to 3rd May for the Spring event, and 4th to 7th June for the Summer one. The venue is Lancaster House Hotel in Lancaster. Click here for full details of these popular events. Book for the Spring event here and for the Summer event here.
The Winter Young Scotland Programme was held in November. It marked the Young Programme's 100th event since it began in 2002. Thirty-four delegates gathered together for three intense days of papers, discussion, group work, and powerful 'Testimony' speakers.
On the final evening, Liam Charles from North Lanarkshire Council was named Scotland Young Thinker of the Year 2018 (a joint award with the winner at the Autumn YSP). Liam's Argument paper, a searingly honest account of the trials, tribulations and joys of becoming a 'kinship carer', won praise for its elegance, humour, and seamless transition from the personal to the facts and figures, which he utilised to great effect. Helen Duncan, representing the Scottish Government, took the runner-up title. Her paper on the perfect storm of an increasingly ageing population and smaller workforce was written in a warm and accessible style with a naturally flowing argument, excellent use of statistics and nice touches of humour.
The group challenge was won by Group E: Helen Duncan (Scottish Government), Andrew Harvie (Historic Environment Scotland), Laura Kerr (Perth and Kinross Council), Rachel Treasurer (Highlands and Islands Enterprise). Click here for photos.
Sadly, the 100th Young Programme event also marked the first in its history which was not attended by founder and chair, Kenneth Roy. Kenneth died at the beginning of November. He is much missed by his friends and colleagues. A memorial service will be held in March – all former delegates are warmly invited to attend. Contact us for details.
