YOUNG people across the county, including East Hampshire, are being offered the chance to help tackle crime and support the police

Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, is seeking 50 volunteers aged between 14 and 25 years old to help give young people a voice on the crime and policing issues.

He said: “The Youth Commission gives young people an opportunity to have an independent and strong voice on societal issues that affect them.

“It works so well because it is about young people talking to and hearing the voices of other young people.

“It is important to me that we listen and take on board the views of young people because it is very much about their future.”

Youth Commission members identify the issues that affect young people and gather their opinions on what the specific concerns are and ideas of how to tackle them.

With four main issues: mental health, substance misuse, cyber safety and relationships with authorities, they work to raise awareness and educate young people via campaigns, such as this year’s cyber safety campaign #GoFISH, workshops, events and a range of other activities.

Youth Commission members also gain a variety of skills, whilst working with a range of people, learning about different issues that are relevant to them and their peers.

This year members will have attended festivals, Rock Challenge, youth conferences and summer activity schemes.

Patrick, 24 who is already part of the Youth Commission said: “Not only does the Youth Commission attempt to help shape the criminal justice system to better reflect the opinions of the young people it represents, we also confront issues that go beyond criminal justice and affect every part of our society.”

There are two stages to the application process: a form to be completed by 5 March 2017 which is available from www.hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/youthcommission.

Applicants that reach the second stage will be invited to an assessment evening in the week commencing March 13.

Applicants with experience of the police and criminal justice systems, as an offender, victim or any other interaction are welcome to apply.

For more information please phone 01962 871 595 or email [email protected]