Young NCB celebrating the diversity of its members

The Young NCB advisory group have helped to develop this statement on what diversity and equal opportunities means to them. It also explains how they would like children and young people to be treated who join Young NCB and get involved in the work of NCB.

We are aware that there are many things that we have in common and make us different. We all are a part of ‘youth culture’ and have different tastes in things but may adopt other cultural beliefs from the communities that we come from. Through our families we may have different life experiences; we may speak different languages, practice different religions or not have a religion. We live in different places, with different types of family set ups and have different accents. Because of our backgrounds we may have different access to education, development of skills and talents. We like different things, choose to have different relationships or have different dreams. What we all agree on is when we join Young NCB we want to have the same opportunities to have our voices heard. This is what equal opportunities means to us.

Having the same opportunities will be regardless of race (Black African, White British or Asian for example), gender (female or male), sexual orientation (straight, gay, lesbian, transsexual), national or ethnic origin (which country or specific group within a country you come from), disability** (any impairment that may impact accessing everyday life), political or religious beliefs, responsibilities for dependants (if you are a young parent), socio-economic background (for example a wealthy or poor background), HIV status (a health condition which is also recognised as a disability), migrant status (how you are allowed to live in a country that is not where you were born), marital status (married or single), or on any other grounds that NCB may see someone as having unique characteristics.

We welcome everyone that comes to join Young NCB and believe that you have important contributions to make to network and the work of NCB. We believe that all forms of discrimination form a barrier to children and young people getting involved in meaningful decision making at young NCB and NCB. There are many opportunities offered to members to have their say and we value your opinion. NCB will try its up most to make sure that you can take part in these regardless of your background or life experiences to date as it is what you have to say that is important to us. This includes offering extra support to attend meetings or finding different ways of communication with you so that you can have a say.

Young NCB and NCB are trying to ensure that in its meetings, activities, services and as an employer through work experience or other paid work, nobody shall be discriminated against. The young NCB advisory group has already come up with some good ideas on how we can make sure everyone feels valued and can contribute if they want to. These changes are taking place. If you have any suggestions on how Young NCB and NCB can improve its involvement of a range of different children and young people please contact us by email or by telephone 0207 843 6099. She is the Young NCB coordinator but if you would prefer to speak to a young person instead she may be able to arrange this.

Young NCB is a group of children and young people who speak out about the important issues and decisions that affect them. It's also a great way to make friends and have fun - and it's all for free!

It is open to all children and young people who are 17 or under and live in England and Northern Ireland. It is supported by the National Children's Bureau and it's work is guided by an Advisory Group of young people.

Young NCB gives its members the chance to speak out and take action on issues you feel are important such as safety, sex and relationships, schools and education, bullying, drugs and media (and loads more!)

At Young NCB your views really count and will be heard by other children and young people, professionals and policy makers.

If you want to find out more about Young NCB or have any questions, email us or call 020 7843 6099.

** Disability can include physical impairments or learning difficulties but also covers areas such as Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Autism.