“I started fighting for a seat at the table once I realised that so many decisions were being made for me. Because I’ve made my voice heard, organisations now reach out to me and ask me to tell my story.”
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
Across the programme, you will:
- Step inside real civic spaces – from courtrooms to boardrooms, meeting the people shaping education, justice, health and local services.
- Take part in interactive workshops where you’ll build confidence, practise speaking up, and learn how to influence decisions effectively.
- Experience simulations and live scenarios – including mock board meetings and decision-making exercises.
- Work alongside other driven young people who care about their communities and want to make change happen.
- Host and contribute to public-facing events that amplify youth voice across Greater Manchester.
- Receive mentoring and application support to help you prepare for civic roles and leadership opportunities.
By the end of the programme, you’ll understand how systems work, who holds power, and how to step confidently into those spaces yourself.
The Youth Civic Leadership Programme runs from March to December, with sessions taking place one Saturday each month (usually 11am–3pm).
The journey is designed in clear stages, so you build confidence step by step.
- Foundations – You’ll start by getting to know the group, setting personal goals, and building a strong understanding of how civic life works. This is where you develop your voice, confidence, and awareness of how decisions are made locally and nationally.
- Exposure – Next, you’ll step into real civic environments. Through court visits, board shadowing, guest speakers and practical simulations, you’ll experience decision-making spaces first-hand and begin to see where you could belong.
- Insight – You’ll deepen your understanding of scrutiny, governance, and influence. We’ll support you to explore civic roles that interest you and guide you through what it takes to apply — from understanding eligibility to strengthening applications.
- Transition – As the programme comes to a close, you’ll focus on your next steps. This includes progression planning, applying for civic opportunities, celebrating your journey at graduation, and joining our alumni network.
Throughout the programme, you’ll be supported by our team, connected with mentors, and encouraged to shape the experience through your feedback and ideas.
By taking part, you will:
- Build real confidence in speaking up, leading discussions, and influencing decisions.
- Understand how power works — who makes decisions, how systems operate, and how to navigate them.
- Develop practical leadership skills including communication, teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Gain meaningful exposure to civic spaces that many young people never get to see.
- Strengthen your applications for roles such as school governor, trustee, magistrate, youth board member or other decision-making positions.
- Expand your network by connecting with mentors, professionals and other ambitious young leaders across Greater Manchester.
We believe civic spaces should reflect the communities they serve. That starts with creating a programme where you feel welcomed, supported, and taken seriously.
When you join the Youth Civic Leadership Programme, we commit to:
- Creating an inclusive environment where every voice is respected and different experiences are valued.
- Supporting your wellbeing throughout the journey, with a team that checks in, listens, and responds.
- Making the programme accessible — it’s completely free, travel costs are covered, and we’ll work with you to make reasonable adjustments if needed.
- Providing clear progression support so you’re not left wondering what comes next. We’ll guide you through applications, opportunities, and next steps.
- Taking your feedback seriously — this is a youth-shaped programme, and your insight helps improve it for future leaders.
We know stepping into new spaces can feel daunting. Our role is to make sure you feel prepared, confident, and backed every step of the way.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need the willingness to step forward.
By the end of the journey, you’ll be ready to step into the spaces where decisions are made.
Civic roles you could progress into include:
- School Governor – helping shape decisions about education and school leadership.
- Charity Trustee – overseeing strategy, funding and impact.
- Magistrate – supporting the justice system in your community.
- Youth Board or Advisory Member – influencing organisations and public bodies.
- Public Panel or Scrutiny Member – holding decision-makers to account.
Some young people apply for roles during the programme. Others take the confidence and knowledge they’ve gained and step forward shortly after.
You’ll also become part of our alumni network, opening up further opportunities, leadership pathways, and the chance to support the next generation of civic leaders.
Do I need to have experience to join?
No experience necessary! Whether you’re new to this or have done previous programmes, we’ll meet you where you’re at. It’s all about learning and improving, no matter where you start.
What is a civic role?
A civic role is a position where you help make decisions that shape your community. This could include being a magistrate, trustee, school governor, or councillor. These roles help guide important choices about things like education, justice, funding, and local services. Young people are often underrepresented in these roles, so youth voices can be missing from key decisions.
Do I need to be confident in my knowledge of civic roles?
No, don’t worry. Most people attend the sessions with little knowledge of civic roles and have gone on to be appointed to these roles. Over the course of the programme, you will learn about civic engagement.
Do I need any experience of being a Youth Civic Leader?
No, you do not need any previous experience in a civic environment to become a civic youth leader. The point of the programme is to open up the opportunity to get involved in civic roles.
Is there a dress code?
Nope! The most important thing is that you feel comfortable. There’s no formal dress code, so wear whatever helps you feel confident and ready to make decisions.
Can I attend if I have special needs or a disability?
Absolutely! We’re committed to making the programme inclusive for everyone. If you need any specific support or adjustments, just let us know when you apply, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
What kind of support will I get during the programme?
You’ll be supported by our awesome team! They’re here to guide you every step of the way, whether you need help with an application, finding a mentor, or knowing where to find civic roles. We’re always on hand.
What if I miss a session?
Life happens, and sometimes you can’t make it. If you miss a session, just let us know, and we’ll help you catch up so you don’t fall behind. We’ll always keep you in the loop!
Will I be able to balance being on the Leadership Programme with full-time work or education?
Yes, absolutely! The programme has been designed with your schedule in mind. Sessions are usually on weekends, and we’ll always give you plenty of notice. We know university, work, and other commitments come first, so we’ll support you to balance your time and make the most of the opportunity.
What is the time commitment of this programme?
The programme usually runs one Saturday per month, typically between 11am–3pm, and lunch will be provided.
There may also be some additional sessions and exciting opportunities like court visits, board shadowing, or special events. We’ll always give you plenty of notice, so you can plan ahead.
What happens after the programme?
During the programme, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for civic roles, so by the end, you’ll be ready to step into a decision-making position in your community.
You’ll also celebrate with a graduation, become part of our alumni network, and have the chance to join our Civic Board, where you can help shape the future of the programme.
“When young people are trusted and supported, they bring insight that can enrich every organisation. I’ve found the confidence to speak up in rooms full of experienced professionals — and be heard.”
Key Info
We're looking for young people aged 16-25.
The closing date for applications is 11pm on Sunday 15 March 2026
You’ll meet once per month with other Youth Civic Leaders through interactive workshops, talks and training sessions to build skills, confidence and networks.
Apply here to the Youth Civic Leadership Programme! Limited spots left.
Get in Touch
Got a question? feel free to ask on the form below!
