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Consulting Communities through Youth-Led Climate Conversations

In 2025, RJ Working embarked on a huge project in Camborne, Pool, and Redruth to spark youth-led climate conversations.

RJ Working team members provided ‘Teamwork and Leadership’ training in three secondary schools in a disadvantaged area, where over 25% of students qualify for ‘pupil premium’ status. The training introduced Restorative language and principles to prepare members of each group to become leaders of a ‘Community Climate Conversation’ event for teachers, parents and other students.

The Youth-led Conversations provided a safe space for everyone to share their thoughts. Young facilitators held their circles with respect and understanding, impressing teachers with their emotional wisdom. Participants’ insights enabled adults to open up new elements of their working relationships with young people. Though some facilitators followed their planned structure rigidly, informal conversations at the end of the event revealed candid reflections. A headteacher felt ‘inspired’ by participating. Quotes from young participants included: ‘Active listening can help us talk about climate,’ ‘We need to look after nature to look after ourselves,’ and ‘Nature needs a voice.’

This project was funded as part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Community Levelling Up Programme

Watch the film of the project to hear from the young people themselves!