2. Youth Independence Forum NSCB 2012 Set up and run by YHNs Youth Voice project the YIF started in January 2006 Provides opportunities for homeless young people or those living independently to have their say and get involved in the development of strategies & services across the city which affect them Youth Independence Forum (YIF) As well as homelessness and independent living there is a strong focus on participation We support other agencies in the city to involve their young people in all aspects of its work

3. Youth Independence Forum NSCB 2012 Youth Independence Forum It gives young people a chance to have a say on what is being done for young people in the city Developed by young people for young people Gives a voice to the young homeless and those who are in the care system The forum feeds into Newcastle’s Homeless Strategy, Youth homelessness Northeast, Childrens Trust Board and Newcastle Safe Guarding Childrens Board.

4. Youth Independence Forum NSCB 2012 Approached n 2010 various approaches tried. Started consultation with YIF in October 2011 Young people’s priorities Alcohol and drugs Sexual exploitation Domestic violence Knife crime NSCB consultation workshops 4 times each year. NSCB & YIF partnership

5. Youth Independence Forum NSCB 2012 We deliver Peer Education programmes to young people in schools and youth organisations across the city. The Peer Education themes focus on reducing Youth Homelessness, Financial Inclusion and our Play it Safe Programme. Youth Voice Peer Education Programme

6. Youth Independence Forum NSCB 2012 Peer Education Programme Young volunteers are encouraged to take part and empower young people to decision make. Give a true picture of issues facing relationships and the realities of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Creates opportunities for young people to understand and ask questions around risk and what this means. Young volunteers share experiences and thoughts to reach young people on a different level. We inform, encourage and create awareness through our young volunteers and utilise their experiences and opinions to engage with young people.