Getting Involved - The Youth Voice
“Hello, I’m Eve, and I am currently working here at the Town Council as part of a work experience placement, focusing on giving a voice to young people in terms of politics and local government, especially from those living or studying in Cirencester. I am currently studying A-Level History, Media Studies and Classical Civilization at Cirencester College, which I am really enjoying. As part of my personal and professional development, I chose to undertake a work experience placement at the council because I wanted to give back to the community that I study in, I am interested in the functioning of local government, and the work of councils on a smaller scale.
In the future, I am aspiring to study History and Politics at university, and perhaps work within the public sector within organisations such as this one, hence why I decided to undertake the placement at the town council. At college, I am part of History Society and I am a Student Ambassador, I feel that the skills I have learnt through these commitments have benefitted my work in the council, and vice versa.
During my time at the Town Council, I have spent some time in the Local Information Centre which is the first point of call for the people of Cirencester for engagements with the Town Council, community events, and other general information about Cirencester. I have enjoyed answering the phone, advising members of the public and interacting with different people from the council. Moreover, I have also worked with the CEO and Deputy CEO on community projects, local democracy and politics and they also allow me to explore my own interests within the council and the charitable trusts they administer.
I would recommend these type of placements to anyone who is interested in politics on any level, local government organisations like this one provide a way in for beginning a political career, especially as a young person, but also they give you more interaction and influence in changing the lives of real people. By having young people like me at the Town Council it gives them a new voice and perspective, which will help them develop and shape their youth services and opportunities for young people to get involved.”