A community research network project is calling on young people to make their voices heard and influence decision-making in Staffordshire
The Know Your Place project is recruiting young people in Staffordshire aged 13 - 18
Know Your Place is about young people creating their platform to amplify their voice to lead change on the issues that matter most to them. Through participatory research, they’re building their skills and confidence and shaping how decisions are made in their communities.
Know Your Place (KYP) is a project that empowers young people in Staffordshire to undertake research and explore the issues that matter to them most.
It is a collaboration between the Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services (SCVYS), Staffordshire County Council, University of Staffordshire and the Young People’s Steering Group (YPSG) – which is now recruiting new members, aged 13 to 18, to shape its future direction.
Participants will explore real-world, local challenges using Participatory Action Research (PAR) methods such as photography, poetry, digital media, and sport, with the goal of turning their research into action, advocacy, and long-term change.
Know Your Place is part of the Community Research Networks programme, which is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It was one of nine community research projects across the UK to receive the funding and the only youth focused project.
Ryan Fox, the project lead at University of Staffordshire, said: “Know Your Place is about young people creating their platform to amplify their voice to lead change on the issues that matter most to them. Through participatory research, they’re building their skills and confidence and shaping how decisions are made in their communities. Thanks to the Community Research Network programme, we’re collaborating with partners across Staffordshire to create a meaningful, lasting impact. We’d love to hear from anyone who wants to get involved!”
Youth organisations across Staffordshire that work with young people are also being invited to get involved as Innovator Organisations. Successful groups will receive a £5,000 grant to lead a creative consultation and a youth-led social action project with young people in their district – which could range from a community garden to a mental health awareness campaign.
Phil Pusey, Chief Executive of SCVYS said “As a youth organisation, we are excited to see how the Know Your Place project empowers local young people through research to influence local decision making and ultimately improve the lives of their peers across the county. We look forward to working with our partner organisations and especially the young people’s steering group who will steer and drive this innovative project forwards.”
If you are a young person living or studying in a Staffordshire Local authority area find more information about the project and how to get involved on the Know Your Place website.