SOSE Calls on Young Voices to Shape the South of Scotland
We are inviting young people to apply to join our Youth Advisory Forum
Established in 2023, the South of Scotland Youth Advisory Forum is an inclusive and supportive space for young people aged 16 – 25 to influence key decisions that will shape their future in the South of Scotland.
The Forum is a platform for young people to get involved in ground-breaking initiatives that have a direct impact in their communities and influence decision-makers at a national level.
What have the highlights of the Forum been so far?
To date, Forum members have played a valuable role in shaping the work of SOSE as well as regional and national projects through consultation and project development sessions.
• Sharing insights with the Crichton Foundation to improve access to Further and Higher Education for rural young people.
• Supporting local projects like Rosefield Mills and Midsteeple Quarter and collaborating with the Open University in Scotland on the European Lunar Symposium.
• Influencing SOSE’s national Food and Drink Transition Strategy, helping reshape messaging on local food chains and consumer awareness.
• Contributing to the Regional Economic Partnership’s performance framework and advising on policy for Community Benefits tied to onshore windfarms.
The Forum is committed to driving change that reflects community priorities.
As a thank you for their valued contribution and dedication to making a change in the South of Scotland, SOSE has provided the Forum with training to build their confidence and tackle imposter syndrome and members have gained practical Board-related skills in governance, finance, and leadership.
Many of the group have earned their Participative Democracy Certificate qualification along the way, which SOSE delivers in partnership with YouthLink Scotland.
Recruitment is now open
The Forum is now expanding and looking for new voices. If you’re aged 16–25 and live in Dumfries & Galloway or the Scottish Borders (or have a permanent address there while studying elsewhere), this is your chance to get involved. Meetings are held every six weeks and can be joined remotely if required.
SOSE is committed to removing barriers to participation, offering support with transport and access needs. You don’t need to know anything about policy, politics or strategies, you just need to want to see a change in your community. If you're interested — or just curious — the team encourages you or your family to get in touch for a chat.
Melissa Gunn, SOSE’s Youth and Employability Manager who leads the Forum said:
“This is a great opportunity for young people to get their voices heard and influence the decisions that will shape their local areas for years to come.
“The South of Scotland has so much potential, and we know that young people’s ideas, energy, and lived experiences are key to building a better future.
“You don’t need any experience to join us — just your voice and your passion. We’ll support you every step of the way. We have another packed year planned for the Forum, and we can’t wait to welcome some new members to join our excellent team.”
Russel Griggs OBE, Chair of SOSE said:
“We’ve always championed youth voices in our region, which is why the SOSE Youth Advisory Forum is a key priority.
“I encourage young people to apply and look forward to welcoming new members from the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway to see the fresh insights they’ll bring.”
Jameson Shirreffs, Forum Member said:
“If it wasn’t for the Forum, I wouldn’t have grown as much as a person. It’s helped me so much with confidence, and my communication and problem-solving skills, and deciding on different outcomes.
“You gain so much from it and for it to be something that requires so little of your time, it has been so incredibly worth it.”
Apply now
Ready to speak up, make a change, and learn new skills?
Applications are now open and close at 12pm on Monday 29th September.
For information visit www.southofscotlandenterprise.com/youthadvisoryforum