My Voice Milestone - Diabetes UK

Main Category: Diabetes
Article Date: 05 Nov 2009 - 3:00 PST

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

Since the October launch of My Voice - Diabetes UK's campaigners network for the under-18s - more than 100 young people and children have become members.

Raj Johal, Local Campaigns Officer at Diabetes UK, said: "We're delighted with the response to the My Voice network as we feel that engaging young people and children in the arena of campaigning and lobbying is very important.

The power of campaigning

"We want to encourage more young people to sign up and learn how campaigning can make a difference so that we can give young people a voice to get their views heard by decision makers."

My Voice campaigners will get involved in both national and local campaigning. Activities could include sending a letter to their local MP, helping their school to understand more about diabetes, or attending a high profile event at the Houses of Parliament.

Alexandra Burke supports My Voice

Alexandra Burke, singer and X-Factor winner, is supporting My Voice. She said: "I fully support Diabetes UK's My Voice campaign network because I really believe that young people have the power to make a difference. The fantastic thing about My Voice is that young people will not only help campaign for real improvements but will have the chance to develop and learn skills, meet new people and have fun doing it too."

On joining, My Voice campaigners receive a letter from Alexandra and a free bag containing a badge, stickers and information about campaigning. They will also receive regular updates, opportunities and ideas on how to get involved.

To find out more about My Voice, visit My Voice.

Ssource
Diabetes UK