Test Valley Borough Council backs youth democracy project in Andover
Yellow Brick Road Projects has been awarded a £10,000 revenue grant from Test Valley Borough Council to deliver Future Leaders and Decision Makers — a three-year youth democracy programme based in Andover.
The project is designed to develop the skills, confidence, and capabilities of young people aged 15 to 18, so they can lead and influence change in their communities. From shaping decisions in Andover, to co-designing local services, participants will take on real leadership roles — not as a token gesture, but as a driving force.
Built around the needs of young people, the sessions are flexible, informal, and inclusive. With an open agenda, groups of young people from across Andover are welcome to attend one session or more, as Yellow Brick Road project members open discussion to encourage shaping decisions that affect them.
Cllr Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said; “This project is about investing in the future of Andover by giving young people the tools and confidence to lead. By involving them in real decision-making, we’re helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive community – one where the next generation feels heard, empowered and ready to make a difference.”
“Supporting this project means investing in the voices and ideas of the next generation – helping them to lead, influence and make meaningful change.”
Siobhan Daly, Director of Yellow Brick Road Projects, said; “ Young people express having lost trust in democracy, this is something we wanted to do something about. As a small charity that works with young people, we knew we had the opportunity to bring them together to hear what they have to say, to put them in the lead to become the influencers of change.
“Being awarded funding from TVBC for the Future Leaders and Decision Makers Programme is brilliant this secures the programme at the front and centre of our organisation for the next 3 years. After all Andover wasn't built in a day. If I can say one thing that you can do is to really listen to young people, they are in charge of all our futures and have great ideas and skills."
This work builds on the council’s wider commitment to involving communities in shaping local decisions and services – an approach that has seen Test Valley recognised nationally for pioneering initiatives like citizens’ assemblies on town centre regeneration and the council’s Corporate Plan.
The programme is open to young people aged 15–18 living in Andover, from any background or service. Participants can attend a single session or get involved more regularly. All upcoming events will be shared through local networks, including the Local Children’s Partnership, with sign-ups via Eventbrite.
For more information or to get involved, contact: admin@yellowbrickroadprojects.co