RECLAIM Project releases Powerhouse Pioneers manifesto

Working class young people from across Greater Manchester share what they believe is needed for the future of their county.

RECLAIM Project’s Powerhouse Pioneers have released their manifesto, highlighting the issues Greater Manchester’s working class young people feel are key to their future.

The idea behind RECLAIM Project’s Powerhouse Pioneers programme is to amplify Greater Manchester’s young voices and ensure their desires for the future don’t go unheard.

The Powerhouse Pioneers cohort is made up of 15 young people (aged 14-20) chosen from across Greater Manchester to be ambassadors for working class communities. Through discussion, debate and critical thinking, the group put their thoughts onto paper, with the result being a seven-point manifesto for Greater Manchester.

The manifesto covers a broad range of topics, including devolution, youth homelessness, the Northern Powerhouse, a lack of diversity in the arts and more.
Elijah, one of the Powerhouse Pioneers, commented on the manifesto, saying: “They tell young people in private schools that they will be leaders of the world. We don’t have that, so we need to change mindsets.”

Charlie, another member of the Powerhouse Pioneers, highlighted the disillusionment felt by many of Greater Manchester’s working class youth, saying: “You never see MPs walking down streets in bad areas speaking to us, they’re always somewhere better”.

Going forward, the group will campaign for social change on the issues they are passionate about, staying true to the words of their manifesto. They want those at the forefront of Greater Manchester’s development to listen to the voices of the unheard community – young people.

RECLAIM Project is a Greater Manchester youth leadership and social change charity, which aims to empower working class young people to be seen, be heard and lead change in their communities.

For further information, visit: www.reclaimproject.org.uk/powerhouse-pioneers/, or contact Roxy Legane, on 0771 521 0102, or email: [email protected]