It has been my pleasure to work with young people in Redcar and Cleveland on several occasions over the last few years; encouraging them to engage with the local authority and their youth service provision and talking about young people in politics. The innovative approach of Dave and the team to the programme gives participants valuable insights and experience in business, media and local politics. In the current climate locally, it’s more important than ever that young people have wide-ranging experiences which help to grow their aspiration and diversify their skills. The projects in Redcar and Cleveland has already supported and encouraged hundreds of the area’s young people to engage with their communities, local businesses and politicians proactively, providing them with a stake in their area and the skills they need to build exciting lives for themselves. Long may it continue!