SOSE Youth Advisory Forum

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 project

What do our young members 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 Qualification (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 our members?

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 I get involved?

We are not currently recruiting but if you are aged between 16-25 and 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) then please get in touch.

To be informed when we are next recruiting or if you would like an informal chat about the Forum, register your interest below.

You really feel like there is something coming out of it. You can see where things are happening because of things that you’ve mentioned, and we’re always fed back the information as well. And any opportunities that are there for future development are really really great so I would 100% recommend this for people.
Jake, Forum Member