A new scheme that aims to develop young people and give them a voice has launched in Lowestoft.

The Lowestoft District Scouts has just launched an exciting scheme to empower their young people, giving them the capacity to shape their Scouting – as well as providing opportunities for everyone to gain experience in responsibility.

To set the scheme in motion, a new role of Youth Commissioner has been created by the National Scout Association, and this week two leaders have been appointed to the post.

Callum Howard and Jake Dixon, both leaders in the district, were officially introduced as Youth Commissioners for the Lowestoft District, joining a team of passionate commissioners across Suffolk and the UK.

District Commissioner Mel Buck said: 'The scouting movement has been celebrating all things #YouShape for the whole month of February – so we are delighted to launch the scheme in Lowestoft at this time.

'Youth Shaped Scouting isn't a new concept and is already happening elsewhere in the country. Using the heading of 'Hash tag (#) YouShape. It helps young people to decide, design and implement their own programme and experiences.'

Callum and Jake added: 'Now that we have been officially launched in Lowestoft, we will begin visiting all the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Network units in the district to find out what they want their scouting to be; what skills they want to learn, what activities they want to do and what adventures they want to be part of.

'We believe that Lowestoft can lead the way in empowering young people, enabling them to be a constructive part of the Scouting movement and establishing an open communication between youth and their leadership. Everyone's opinions deserve to be heard, no matter their age, ability, or background.

'We want to develop our young people and give them a voice. We are seeking to achieve 'fun scouting for everyone' and #youshape is the process to get there.'

To keep up to date with Jake and Callum's progress follow @lowestoftdyc on Twitter – or contact them to find out how you can be a part of the Scouting family.