Young people design and deliver research projects to explore the needs of young people in their local areas. They then present their findings to decision makers and service providers. Young researchers then have the option to become a Youth Forum to develop their own projects to respond to the needs and views identified. Our Peer mentoring project was developed by the North Sheffield Youth Forum as a direct result of their peer research project in Southey and Owlerton.

How it works
• We train young people in research skills
• Young people identify what they want to find out and what methods they will use, then design the project
• Young people carry out research across the area in schools, youth groups, and on the streets
• They then collate their findings and identify key issues, views and ideas
• Findings are presented by young people at a local conferences, events and meetings
• Decision makers and service providers are asked to respond.

What Children and Young People get
• Opportunity to influence decision makers and change their communities in ways that young people would like
• Skills in research
• ASDAN accreditation
• Confidence building
• Understanding of representation and opportunity to represent other young people
• FUN!

What adults get
• Accurate information on the views and priorities of children and young people in their areas
• Opportunity to build responsive services that meet the needs of young people
• Representative group of young people to work with.

Outcomes
• Local research findings that identify the needs, views and priorities of children and young people that can be used to develop and deliver more appropriate services
• Empowered young people willing to represent and work on behalf of others to improve the lives of children and young people.