Charlotte Kilroy, Oldham Youth Council
I’m Charlotte Kilroy and I’m a member of Oldham youth council. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say that I think Oldham rocks. I have been so lucky to have many fantastic opportunities as a young person in this town.
I, alongside many of my fellow youth councillors, have been involved with integrated youth services for a number of years and I think they can be described in one word - amazing. I have been part of sooooo many wonderful experiences from working as part of the Mahdlo My Place youth centre development, making history by being part of the United Kingdom youth parliament debate in the house of commons, to the multitude of opportunities I get as a youth councillor. I am kept incredibly busy. One of my most favourite things about Oldham are the fab youth workers who are always there to support and guide us. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without them and the opportunities they have given me. Through the hard work and support they give us – putting on activities and organising events - I have developed hundreds of new skills and made so many amazing friends.
I feel I have also been part of something special; something that has made Oldham a better place. I have been part of a number of projects that promote community cohesion such as the fusion project and our recent 22nd century citizenship project, which involved a a week long trip to Auschwitz in Poland to explore the holocaust and how we as young people can make sure any hate and prejudice is challenged so history stops repeating itself.
As youth councillors we are often told by young people Oldham has nothing for us to do. I would disagree. There is lots for us to do in Oldham – we just need to make sure all young people know about these fab opportunities and hopefully Oldham Says can help get those messages across.
I’m Charlotte from Oldham and I say Oldham is fantastic.
Have your say
Before you post a comment, please read our comment moderation policy.
Dave, Hollinwood
I agree in part, but there is little youth or family activities in Oldham, unlike Every other town around Oldham. Can anyone tell me why Oldham has no cinema or for that matter bowling or any other such family or youth orientated facility? Since the closure of the Roxy. Many now have to go either to pilsworth or ashton moss, which most Oldham youths can't get to. When will Oldham put family & youth activities and facilities more of a top focus than current? We have sporting facilities and parks but nothing like our neighbouring towns. Can any name any town around Oldham without either a cinema or bowling - Rochdale, Bury, Ashton, Middleton, and Prestwich, all have… but not Oldham. WHY…?