THURROCK'S SEND Youth Group is calling on passionate young people to join a powerful platform designed to give them a voice in shaping the future. 

The SEND Youth Group offers an incredible opportunity for those aged 16 to 25 with additional needs to socialise, develop skills and have a say on policies and future decisions that may affect them.  

Members are directly involved in initiatives that impact young people's lives across Thurrock, working closely with Thurrock Council's Youth Cabinet to share their views on the topics most important to them.

It is an opportunity for SEND young people to engage with the council, campaign on community issues, promote inclusivity and develop valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership and public speaking.

Meetings for the group are held at Grangewaters in South Okendon over the school holidays.

Cllr Vikki Hartstean, cabinet Member for children's services and education, said: "The SEND Youth Group provides an inclusive and supportive environment which enables more young people to have their voice heard.

"It's a great opportunity to meet with other like-minded young people to collaborate on ideas and work on projects that are important to them.

"I hope more young people can get involved in the group so we can continue to have wider representation and opinions from the young people in our borough."