A NEW report detailing the major issues affecting young people in Cheshire has been welcomed by police and crime commissioner (PCC) David Keane.

The report was conducted by the Cheshire Youth Commission following a survey with 2000 young people across Cheshire.

Mental health, online safety and sexual harassment were revealed to be the key issues.

The Youth Commission, which is delivered through support from the PCC, also found young people considered drug and alcohol misuse and having trust in the police force as important issues to be addressed.

David said: “It’s incredibly important for young people to be given the opportunity to have their say on key policing issues which affect their everyday lives, with more than a quarter of residents in Cheshire under the age of 25.

“The Cheshire Youth Commission has worked extremely hard over the last year to capture a range of feedback from our diverse communities which has been used to develop their priorities and recommendations.

“It is now the responsibility of all of us in positions of influence to consider how we can work together to implement these recommendations.”

Following the success of this year’s project, the commissioner is looking to recruit more members to this year’s Youth Commission.

Anyone aged 14-25 who lives, studies or works in Cheshire is able to apply to be on this year’s Youth Commission, giving them the chance to take part in this year’s consultation to have an enhanced advisory role on policing issues and support key police operations.

David said: “Joining the Youth Commission is a fantastic opportunity for any young person interested in policing or criminal justice who wants to make a real difference to their community.

“The Youth Commission plays a huge role in helping me engage with young people, giving up their own time to talk to other young people about the priorities that matter to them. I am sincerely grateful for their continued support,” added David.

Rose Dowling, director at Leaders Unlocked who coordinate the Youth Commission in Cheshire, added: “We are delighted to offer the opportunity for more young people to get involved with the Cheshire Youth Commission this year.

“Successful applicants will be collaborating closely with the PCC and constabulary to make a real difference to policing and crime in Cheshire in the year ahead.

“We intend to select a very diverse group from across the county, including groups that are often overlooked and those with lived experience of the police and justice systems.”

Further information about applying for the 2018 Youth Commission is available on the commissioner’s website. The deadline for applications is July 20.