Teenagers celebrate charity’s anniversary

Oct 1 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

WHITBURN teenagers had the chance to take part in a conference to mark the 125th anniversary of a national charity.

William Kerr, Sarah Mark, Megan Coupton, Lorne Gillies and Rebecca Shaw, were among 125 people chosen to take part in a youth participation conference in Edinburgh, to mark the anniversary of Children 1st, previously the Royal Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

The conference provided a chance for young people aged between 14 and 18 to raise awareness about the issues which matter to them.

And the event brought together teenagers from across Scotland to share experiences and ideas and to help develop Action Plans for their own local campaigns.

Sarah Mark and Megan Coupton said they had enjoyed taking part in the day’s events.

They said: “It has been interesting and informative learning about the issues and meeting new people.”

On the day, an audience of invited special guests, including MSPs, had the opportunity to hear the young people’s presentations and calls to action about issues such as children’s rights, violence, the image of young people, the history and impact of Children 1st and the future for children and young people.

Speaking about the day’s events, William Kerr said: “It was an opportunity to speak to young people from all over Scotland and share views and was a great experience.”