Students at Coombeshead Academy Sixth Form were keen to share their views on how local charities can better engage with younger people at an event on Tuesday (September 10).

Representatives from seven organisations met with students to find out more about how they can attract younger volunteers and supporters.

‘In Teignbridge, we have a thriving voluntary sector.  However, the majority of volunteers in many organisations are retired or of working age,’ said Chloe Myers from Teignbridge Community and Voluntary Services (CVS), which organised the event. ‘These organisations are keen to engage with more young people to find out what they need from volunteering,’ she added.

‘While, we’re not expecting youngsters to be drivers,’ admitted Mike Hocking, chair of Newton Abbot Community Transport, ‘We are looking for ideas about how we can get our voice heard.’

The students came up with a variety of ideas ranging from TikTok videos to street performances and busking as a way to raise funds and awareness.

Some of the students who already volunteer shared how much they enjoy supporting younger children at Brownies or Scouts groups.

Students also chatted with Newton Abbot Mayor, and former Coombeshead student, Alex Hall about his role on the Council. And they were not shy in sharing their views on what they like and dislike about Newton Abbot.

Newton Abbot Mayor Alex Hall discusses his role on the council with Sixth Form students at Coombeshead Academy
Newton Abbot Mayor Alex Hall discusses his role on the council with Sixth Form students at Coombeshead Academy (Jo Bowery / MDA)

Organisations represented at the event were: Phoenix Rising CIC; Newton Abbot Rotary Club; Citizen’s Advice; Newton Abbot Community Transport; Children’s Hospice SW; Newton Abbot Museum; and Teignbridge District Council.

The idea of the event was to help raise awareness of these organisations amongst young people and show young people the benefits of volunteering as a way to help with university applications and future career aspirations, while also getting a younger perspective on what the charities do and how they can make themselves more attractive to younger people.

‘Volunteering is a great way for young people to try different types of work and gain experience and references that will help their future career,’ noted Chloe from Teignbridge CVS. ‘It's also brilliant for building confidence at any age.’