Pennines Question Time

Gail Hopper with the young people she presented with first aid certificates for completing a first aid course in youth service sessions

Young people from Rochdale Youth Service held a 'Question Time' event at Smallbridge Library on Wednesday asking questions of decision makers and other organisations about issues they feel affect young people in the area.

Questions asked were about stop and search by the police, transport in the area, youth facilities and racism.

Young people voiced their concerns to Councillor Janet Emsley, Gail Hopper, Rochdale Council Director for Children’s Services, Sandra Bowness, Assistant Director for Early Help and Schools,and local PCSOs. Ethan Marriot, member of the Youth Parliament, supported them.

Sam Mason hosted the evening and said: "The young people spoke passionately about a range of issues that are important to them.

"As a follow up we plan to apply for funding to develop facilities for the whole community."

Youth worker Mohammed Zarafat said: "All the young people worked really hard preparing for the event and are great role models for other young people."