Teams from seven secondary schools across Carmarthenshire have shared their views on proposals in the County Council’s budget as part of an Insight event organised by the Local Authority.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s annual Insight event (which took place on January 22) is open to all secondary schools in the county as well as Coleg Sir Gâr. The event gives pupils the opportunity to step into the roles of the Council’s Cabinet and discuss their opinions on proposed budget plans.

The aim of the event is to introduce young people to local government and provide an insight into the challenges faced on a day-to-day basis. It also offers Cabinet Members the chance to hear pupils’ views directly and engage with them on issues that matter most to young people.

Teams of pupils from years 9–13 from Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth, Ysgol Bro Dinefwr, Ysgol y Strade, Ysgol St John Lloyd, Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, Ysgol Uwchradd y Frenhines Elisabeth and Ysgol Bro Myrddin took part. The event was held at County Hall in Carmarthen.

Their findings were presented to the Leader of the Council, Cllr Linda Evans, Chief Executive Wendy Walters, Cabinet Members and senior officers in the Council Chamber.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr Linda Evans, said: “Events like Insight are an important reminder of how valuable young people’s perspectives are. The discussions were thoughtful, constructive and showed a real understanding of the challenges we face as a Council. I’d like to thank everyone involved for their time and commitment.”