Year 10 students, Ayelen Martinez and Dileena Kaur, have been appointed as Sandwell Youth Commissioners with West Midlands Police, a role that gives young people a meaningful voice in decisions about policing and community safety.
Their appointments place them among a small group of young people elected to serve two-year terms advising the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner. Both students began their posts in November.
As Youth Commissioners, they are expected to consult young people on the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan, raising issues around community safety, youth justice, victim services and crime prevention. Working directly with senior officers, they have also been tasked with helping to hold West Midlands Police to account for the service it provides to younger residents.
A key part of their work involves gathering the views of young people in their communities, ensuring their perspectives are reflected in local discussions about policing. Youth Commissioners play an important role in strengthening relationships between young people and the police by helping to challenge and break down barriers that can discourage open communication.
Thomas Daly, Principal at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “We are immensely proud to see Ayelen and Dileena appointed as Youth Commissioners for Sandwell.
“This achievement is a testament not only to their personal qualities, but the trust placed in them to represent the voices of young people across the borough. They have shown maturity, compassion and a strong sense of responsibility, making them outstanding role models for our school community.”
By taking on this role, Ayelen and Dileena have demonstrated a strong commitment to representing the views of their peers and making a positive difference in their communities. The Academy looks forward to seeing the lasting impact they will continue to have through their work as Sandwell’s Commissioners.
