Sixteen young people have been chosen as the new Youth Commissioners for the West Midlands.
The election took place over a two week period with 2,365 votes cast in an online ballot by under 18s across the region.
The Youth Commissioners will advise the Police and Crime Commissioner on law and order issues affecting children and teenagers. They will also be asked to represent the views and stand up for the rights of young people within the police force area.
Each borough in the West Midlands will be represented by two Youth Commissioners who will serve a two year term and the PCC is asking young people to reach out to their Youth commissioner so their voices get heard.
As well as speaking directly to the PCC the volunteer Youth Commissioners will liaise with police officers, decision makers and youth organisations about crime, justice and victim services.
They will also be asked to challenge the force when it fails to live up to expectations.
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, said: “I’m delighted to have 16 newly elected Youth Commissioners in post.
“These individuals will play a very important role in keeping younger generations safe.
“It is their responsibility to brief me on the views and concerns of young people.
“I rely on these Commissioners to tell me when problems emerge so I can ensure something is done.
“They are my eyes and ears on the ground and play a crucial role in keeping everyone safe.”
Renee Samra, 17, from Walsall, said:” I am extremely pleased to hear I have been successfully elected as a Youth Commissioner for a further 2 years.
“Working alongside the West Midlands PCC will provide an amazing platform to be able to bridge the gap between the youth and the police.
“I also look forward to working with all of the other elected Youth Commissioners to help bring the voice of young people further to life in the West Midlands.”
Youth Commissioners will be asked to consult young people on the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan, liaise with other teenagers and children and build relationships with the police.
Anyone who wishes to contact their Youth Commissioner should email m.jacobs@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Your new Youth Commissioners are as follows:
| NPU AREA | Age |
| DUDLEY | |
| Anthony Alexander | 15 |
| Amman Ahmed | 18 |
| WOLVERHAMPTON | |
| Jaspinder Kaur | 17 |
| Amelia Beet | 16 |
| COVENTRY | |
| Andre Russell | 18 |
| Eniola Adekunle | 15 |
| SANDWELL | |
| Rhea Ratti | 16 |
| Mohammed Al Hasan | 16 |
| WALSALL | |
| Renee Samra | 17 |
| Silvia Jaswal | 17 |
| BIRMINGHAM EAST | |
| Taiyanna Stewart | 17 |
| Wasi Arshad | 15 |
| BIRMINGHAM WEST | |
| Aleesha Majid | 14 |
| Subhan Shan | 17 |
| SOLIHULL | |
| Zara Dowler | 13 |
| Rabia Khan | 16 |
