The Worcestershire Youth Cabinet has launched a new manifesto with a focus on mental health and tackling knife crime.

The group, which is made up of young people from across the county, unveiled its new manifesto at an event at The Hive on Saturday, November 23.

The manifesto was developed from the issues that young people in the county voted on as part of the Make Your Mark campaign.

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The top issues included improving mental health support and hospital experiences for young people, as well as tackling knife crime.

Councillor Steve Mackay, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for children and families, and Worcester MP Tom Collins, attended the event to support the group.

Youth cabinet member and deputy vice chair Cameron led the event in the absence of chair Anusha Salhan, with other members Rhys, Tyler, Lexi, and Annabelle sharing their views.

In a foreword as part of the youth cabinet’s manifesto launch, chair Miss Salhan said: "This year, our cabinet has expanded not only in size, but also in our desire to achieve much more.

"We have undertaken a range of projects that address critical issues on the minds of young people today - issues such as health and wellbeing, crime and safety, and education."

Cllr Mackay said: "It was a pleasure to join the youth cabinet as they launched their manifesto and I’m pleased to see that support for young people with SEND is a priority for them."

Tom Collins, MP for Worcester, added: "It was fantastic to hear the passion of our youth cabinet members.

"Young people in our county are ready to step up and work together for change that makes a real difference."

To find out more about the youth cabinet or to get involved, contact the youth voice team at youthvoiceteam@worcestershire.gov.uk.