Democracy in Action

Young people have been finding out about local democracy this week at a series of events to get young people engaged in the democratic process.

Primary school pupils from across South Tyneside visited South Shields Town Hall to take part in an interactive story session to explore what makes a good leader and learn about the process of democracy.

In the Council Chamber, the children heard speeches from candidates and got the chance to cast their votes for a new leader of Staryland.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "It's important to encourage our children and young people to learn about democracy. They are the voters of tomorrow so it's vital they know how to make sure their voices are heard."

South Tyneside's Young People's Parliament  (YPP) also arranged an inter-generational debate with older members of the pubic as part of the 'democracy year of action.'

The group debated three topics on the theme of health and wellbeing which has been the YPP's campaign for this year.

Hebburn St Oswald's CE VA Primary School also visited the Town Hall for a short tour followed by a debate in the  Council Chambers. This followed a number of debate workshops in schools run by the Participation Team to equip children with debating skills.