Youth councils and forums are only effective when they genuinely represent the breadth of young people involved in football.
We're exploring ways to strengthen connections between youth leadership structures and the wider community, particularly reaching those who might feel disconnected from traditional volunteering routes. This includes young people from underrepresented backgrounds, those facing socio-economic barriers, disabled young people, girls and young women, and individuals who love football but don't see themselves reflected in leadership spaces.
What innovative engagement methods have you seen work well in breaking down these barriers? Are there specific outreach strategies, partnership approaches, or communication channels that have proved successful in your area? How can we move beyond standard consultations to create ongoing, meaningful dialogue with young people who wouldn't typically engage with a youth council?
Additionally, how can existing youth council members actively work to ensure they're truly representing diverse perspectives rather than inadvertently speaking only for those similar to themselves? What accountability measures or feedback mechanisms could help youth leadership structures remain connected to the communities they serve?
Share your experiences, creative ideas, and honest reflections on both successes and ongoing challenges in building truly representative youth voice structures within football.
