Young People, Big Impact: Meet the Youth Panel helping to shape Youth Talk
Youth Talk’s vision: Every young person can talk to someone who can help with whatever’s worrying them
At Youth Talk, young people don’t just use the charity’s services - they help shape them.
Youth Talk’s Youth Panel is a passionate group of local young people aged 13 to 25. They volunteer their precious time to ensure the voice of young people is heard at every level of the charity’s decision-making and service design.
From the look and feel of the counselling centre, to how services are delivered and promoted, right through to helping with fundraising and representing Youth Talk at external events, the panel plays a key rolebringing fresh ideas, lived experience, and a whole lot of heart.
A space to be heard
The Youth Panel is made up of a diverse group of young people from across the local area. Some bring valuable lived experience, having previously accessed Youth Talk’s services and are now keen to give back. Others are passionate about mental health and want to make a difference for their peers. And some are simply looking to support a local charity they believe in - using their voices and ideas to help shape a service that truly reflects the needs of young people today.
“Being part of the Youth Panel has been really empowering,” says one member.
“It’s not a token thing, our ideas actually make a difference.”
“Our Youth Panel is so much more than just giving us feedback. Our panel is involved in real decisions, real projects, and real change. They’re an inspiration.”
Kaz Underwood, Youth Talk’s
Operations Manager
Another panel member shared: “It’s amazing to be part of something where our ideas matter. I’ve seen changes happen because of things we suggested –it feels empowering.”
The group stays connected through a dedicated WhatsApp group chat and also meets in person at the very counselling centre they helped design. They share ideas, challenge assumptions, and contribute to a wide range of projects - usually helped along by pizza and treats! Whether it’s shaping new services, giving feedback on campaigns, speaking at external events, supporting fundraising activities, or presenting at Youth Talk’s annual team event - their impact is felt throughout the charity.
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Some members are outgoing and eager to present; others are quiet thinkers who contribute behind the scenes. Each voice matters and adds to the strength and insight of the group.
Powering a brighter future
As demand for Youth Talk’s free, confidential counselling service continues to rise, the Youth Panel ensures the charity remains grounded in the real, evolving needs of young people across the community. By giving young people a seat at the table, and truly listening, Youth Talk is building a stronger, more responsive future.
As one panel member put it:
“If something we say today helps make Youth Talk even better for someone tomorrow, then that’s amazing.”
Scan to donate to Youth Talk and help them to continue providing essential counselling sessions
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You can also follow Youth Talk on social media.