At SOSE, we think it’s essential for the voices of young people to be considered as part of our decision-making. 

The SOSE Youth Advisory Forum provides a safe and supportive space for young people to voice their opinions and help both SOSE and our external partners in making important decisions for the South of Scotland. 

So far, our Youth Advisory Forum members have worked with a wide range of SOSE staff and external partners on topics including:  

• How we can measure the success of the South of Scotland Regional Economic Strategy in a way that people can understand 
• What it’s like to study in Dumfries and Galloway 
• How the 2024 European Lunar Symposium could work closely with schools and communities and leave a lasting legacy 
• The barriers faced by young people when starting up their own business and how SOSE could help
• Awarding grant funding to youth-focused projects

What will you gain from being a part of the forum? 

• The chance to have your views heard and help to drive change in the South of Scotland 
• Meeting other people that are passionate about the South 
• Opportunities for networking and to attend events representing the SOSE Youth Advisory Forum 
• Personal development and training  
• The option to complete the SCQF Level 5 Participative Democracy Certificate (delivered in collaboration with YouthLink Scotland) 
• Gain impressive experience with transferable skills to add to your CV and/or educational applications 

What is expected of you?

• Regular attendance at meetings and training/mentoring sessions alongside preparation time. This will account for around six to eight hours each month.
• A willingness to talk openly and honestly whilst being open-minded, creative, optimistic, and ambitious.
• To work with other members of the Forum and SOSE staff.
• Be a champion for the South and passionate about representing the views of young people.
• Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn! 

How can you apply? 

We are looking to grow our existing team and are now inviting applications for new members. To be eligible to apply, you must:

• Be aged between 16 to 25
• Live in Dumfries and Galloway or the Scottish Borders (If you are studying outside the South of Scotland, that’s no problem as long as you have a permanent address in the South, and are able to commit to attending meetings)

These are voluntary positions, but travel expenses will be reimbursed, and food will be provided at all face to face meetings. We may also be able to help if you would like to apply but face barriers such as childcare costs or a lack of technology.

Currently, meetings take place face to face in different parts of the region, although could take place on a hybrid basis. Those who join the Forum will come on board for an initial two-year period, with the potential to extend for a further year if you are still within the eligible age range. 

In your application, we want to know about who you are as a person, not just the qualifications you may have. We specifically want to hear about:

• What you feel it’s like to live/work/study in your part of the South
• The things you like to do in your spare time
• What qualities you have that you think would be useful if you were successful in becoming a Youth Advisory Forum member

We understand that people prefer to communicate in different ways, so we are happy for you to submit your application in either written, audio or video formats.

Depending on which format you choose, we have some guidelines we need you to follow:

• Video and audio files should be a maximum of 3 minutes.
• Written applications should be a maximum of 2 pages in length.

To apply, you must complete our Form here with your information AND email your application to youthadvisoryforum@sose.scot. We will send you an email confirmation once we receive your application.

Closing date for applications is Monday 30^th September 2024. If you would like an informal chat about the Forum, contact Melissa Gunn at melissa.gunn@sose.scot.