Debbie McVitty, who advises the senior leadership team at the University on government and higher education policy, spoke to young people at the Youth Community Question Time event, which gave young people the chance to quiz local leaders about issues they care about, from hate crime to the Labour leadership contest.

Other members of the panel included Gavin Shuker, MP for Luton South, PC James Hart, Hate Crime Tactical Lead at Bedfordshire Police and Vera McNamara, Farley Big Local Community Development Worker.

Many of the young people who attended the event, which took place at Stockwood Park Academy in Luton, were participants of Find Your Power, UpRising’s summer programme.

Twenty young people aged 16-21 took part in the summer programme to gain confidence, learn more about social action and increase their chances of securing a job.

Gavin Shuker, MP said: “I was very impressed with the quality and enthusiasm of the questioning from the groups and it was great to be able to speak directly to so many young people about important issues. This kind of event is key for getting the next generation engaged in politics and their future. UpRising are leading the way in providing these opportunities for young people in Luton and across Bedfordshire.”

UpRising is a national youth leadership development organisation that aims to open pathways to power for talented young people from diverse and under-represented backgrounds and equipping them with the knowledge, networks, skills, and confidence to fulfil their leadership potential, find new opportunities and transform the world around them through social action.

Do you know anyone aged 19-25 who could benefit from UpRising’s free Leadership Programme? Applications open until 3rd October. To apply go to UpRising Leadership Programme