We launched the Forum in 2023, and it is a supportive, inclusive space for young people aged 16 – 25 years old to influence real decisions that shape our region’s future.

So far, the Forum have had the opportunity to play a key role in shaping the work of SOSE, as well as regional and national project consultations, and the Forum members have loved all the opportunities that they’ve had the chance to get involved in.  

Some of their highlights so far include:

• Sharing insights with the Crichton Foundation to improve access to Further and Higher Education for rural young people.
• Supporting local projects like Rosefield Mills and Midsteeple Quarter and collaborating with the Open University in Scotland on the European Lunar Symposium.
• Our work Influenced SOSE’s national Food and Drink Transition Strategy, helping reshape messaging on local food chains.
• Contributing to the Regional Economic Partnership’s performance framework and advising on policy for Community Benefits tied to onshore windfarms.

Training:

As well as consulting on projects, you’ll also get the chance to take part in training on topics that are meaningful to the group. This year, we trained our members in what it’s like to be on a Board as well as how to build confidence and strategies to avoid imposter syndrome. They also learned how to use social media to elevate their career.

Funding Local Projects:

The Forum also considered a range of local youth project proposals to that were seeking funding, and they were able to support work that made a difference in their own communities and that would leave a legacy for future generations.

Mentoring:

Through the Forum, you will receive one to one mentoring to help you develop your confidence and your networks, and can also be matched with someone within SOSE who has subject specific knowledge, allowing you the opportunity to learn from them and their experience in the specific industry.  

Qualifications:

Many of the Forum members have completed or are working towards their Participative Democracy Certificate which  SOSE delivers in partnership with Youthlink Scotland. It is an SCQF Level 5 accreditation for young people involved in group decision making. It gives you the opportunity to acknowledge and develop communication and negotiation skills as part of your engagement with the big topics that we’ll ask your views on.

Networking:

Not only will you get to network with other members and listen to and discuss new ideas, but there will also be the opportunity to attend external events and meet new people right across Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders that will help you build a professional network at the start of your career.

•    Must be aged 16 – 25, 
•    Live in (or have a permanent address in) Dumfries & Galloway or the Scottish Borders
•    Be passionate about making a difference

Applications open: Monday 25 August 2025
Deadline: 12pm on Monday 29 September 2025.

Got questions? Want to chat it through first?
Email us at: youthadvisoryforum@sose.scot

Even when we are not recruiting you can register interest, keep up to date with us on social media, or read our blogs. Get in touch today if you want to have a chat:  youthadvisoryforum@sose.scot