+ Chari
+ Damien
+ Diana
+ Elliot
+ Lola
+ Malik
+ Melinda
+ Sam
What is the Youth Advisory Board?
The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is a group of young people aged 16–24 who work together to shape what hyh does.
We meet regularly to share ideas, give feedback, and help influence decisions about services, projects and future plans. It’s all about making sure young people’s voices are at the heart of everything.
Being part of the YAB means helping make real, meaningful change, while also having fun along the way.
What kind of things do you do on the YAB?
As a YAB member, you’ll get involved in a wide range of projects. Here are some things we’ve already done:
Helped shape fundraising ideas and strategies- Reviewed forms and shared feedback to improve them
- Helped shape support sessions for Future Roots housemates
- Tested our AI chatbot and reviewed how it’s used
- Embedded youth voice throughout our strategy Home 2030
- Created and starred in a video about Home 2030
- Designed the visual identity for Home 2030
- Developed ideas to help staff involve young people in their decisions (making sure hyh is youth-led and co-produced at every level)
Why do we have a YAB?
Young people’s voices matter.
Your real-life experiences and ideas help hyh:
- Better understand young people
- Improve services and support
- Make decisions that actually reflect what’s needed
The YAB keeps hyh connected to what young people need and care about, making sure everything we do is shaped with young people, not just for them.
FAQs
What’s a meeting like?
Meetings are relaxed, fun and interactive. They’re shaped by YAB members, so your ideas help guide what we do.
We start with icebreakers to help everyone feel comfortable, and we have breaks and snacks throughout the meeting. We mix things up with different activities and ways to take part, so you can share your thoughts in a way that works for you. No boring meetings here!
Who can join?
Anyone aged 16–24 who lives in Hertfordshire. No experience needed, just bring yourself and your ideas!
When and where do we meet?
We meet every 6 weeks. Sessions alternate between:
- In-person in Hatfield
- Online on MS Teams How do I know my voice is heard?
We make sure your input actually matters.
You’ll know:
- Who is asking for your views
- What they plan to do with them
- What changes happen because of your ideas
We’ll also check in regularly to make sure you feel heard. And if you think we could do better, you can always tell us.
What else can I get involved in?
There’s loads of opportunities beyond meetings!
You could:
- Speak at events or open days
- Help with fundraising
- Get involved in creative projects
- Support workshops or activities
- And more…
You’re part of the hyh community, not just the YAB
Do I get paid?
This is a voluntary role, so it’s unpaid.
But:
- You’ll get a thank-you voucher after each meeting
- All your expenses are covered How long would I be in the role for?
The YAB runs for one year, starting in April.
What if I want to leave?
Because it’s voluntary, you can leave at any time.
We do ask for a year’s commitment if possible, as your voice is really valuable, but we understand things can change.
How do I apply?
We usually recruit in December for an April start.
Keep an eye on:
- Our website
- Our social media What happens after I apply?
Once you apply:
We’ll review your application
- If it’s a good fit, we’ll invite you to a short, informal chat
- You can ask questions and get to know us
- If it’s right for both of us, we’ll get you started
- If it’s not the right fit this time, we’ll let you know too. What if I need extra help?
Just let us know, we’re here to support you.
Will this help my CV?
Definitely!
You’ll build skills like:
- Communication
- Decision-making
- Public speaking
- Teamwork and relationship-building
- Confidence and leadership
We can also provide a reference if you need one.
Do you run social events?
Yes!
We organise optional social events throughout the year so you can get to know everyone. These are funded by hyh, so no cost to you.
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