Young people to voice opinions on key issues in upcoming Chamber debate  

Local young people’s concerns and aspirations will be front and centre in the Council Chamber this week when the Orkney Youth Chamber Debate takes place.  

Running on Wednesday 11 June and supported by the Council’s Youth Services team, the event will see secondary pupils putting forward their views to Councillors, senior officers and directors at OIC – and leaders from partner organisations -  on topics such as mobile phone use in schools, mental health services for young people, and the importance of free and engaging activities for young people in the cost of living crisis.  

Convener of Orkney Islands Council, Graham Bevan, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this event again, as it is such a valuable opportunity for young people to voice their opinions and for decision makers to hear directly from younger people in our community.”  

Cheryl Rafferty is Team Manager of Youth Services at the Council, part of OIC’s Community Learning, Development and Employability service: “The three topics have been selected on the basis of consultation with young people carried out by the Orkney Youth Forum and the Members of Scottish Youth Parliament, and current topics of interest in the media.  

“Events such as these help develop young people’s ability to construct their thoughts and opinions on issues of importance to them - and their confidence approaching new challenges and forming and articulating their position to others.”  

Councillor Gwenda Shearer is Chair of the Council’s Education, Leisure and Housing Committee: “We hope the debate will help demonstrate to young people how being involved with the groups we support here at the Council - such as the Youth Forum, youth groups, and Orkney’s MSYP’s - can lead to opportunities to contribute to their communities and improve prospects for their peers.”  

The topics chosen for discussion also align with the many of the priorities within the Orkney Children’s Services Plan 2023 – 2026 including Mental Health and Wellbeing and Reducing Poverty and Disadvantage.  

Topic 1: Mental Health services for young people.

This discussion on mental health services in Orkney will focus on how to improve accessibility and support for young people. The session will encourage young people to share their views and contribute to solutions that address mental health needs in their community

Topic 2: Accessible and affordable things to do

This topic aims to explore affordable and accessible activities in Orkney, addressing the impact of the cost of living on young people’s opportunities and wellbeing.

Topic 3: Mobile phone use in school

Young people will debate both the benefits and challenges – with the aim of encouraging reflection on  responsible phone use and its impact on learning.

The Orkney Youth Chamber Debate will take place on Wednesday 11 June 2025 in the Council Chamber, within the Council buildings at School Place in Kirkwall, from 11am to 2pm.

Attendance at the event is being arranged through secondary schools in Orkney.