At the BCYS Youth Gather held at Essex Outdoors on Mersea Island (25–26 October), young people from across the Diocese of Brentwood were given the opportunity not only to reflect on issues affecting their communities, but also to make their voices heard by writing to their local Members of Parliament.

The sessions were led by Caritas Brentwood’s Director and Development Officer, who introduced participants to the organisation’s work supporting communities across Essex and East London. Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, Caritas Brentwood promotes an intergenerational approach to social action, encouraging people of all ages to work together to address injustice and support those most in need. Throughout the weekend, the team emphasised that young people are not just the future of the Church and society, but active partners in shaping it today.

Building on the previous day’s workshops exploring Caritas Brentwood’s three main areas of focus: environmental responsibility, supporting those seeking refuge and people experiencing homelessness. Young people returned to these themes on Sunday with a renewed sense of purpose. Inspired by the example of young saints devoted to service, they considered how faith can be lived out through advocacy and action.

Participants reflected on the realities facing people in their local areas and were encouraged to speak directly to decision-makers about the issues that matter most to them. The letters demonstrated compassion, insight and a strong desire to build a more just and caring society.

Many young people wrote passionately about protecting the environment and the responsibility to safeguard creation for future generations:

“God created the world in seven days… and we are destroying it.”

“How many more animals must go extinct, homes destroyed, towns flooded and hot summers must occur for the government to make a change?”

Others challenged misconceptions around refugees and people seeking asylum, emphasising dignity, welcome and the importance of changing harmful narratives:

“Refugees nowadays are often treated with hostility and disrespect, and we think that it’s time to change this.”

“Let us be the ones to change the lives of thousands.”

Several letters focused on homelessness and the cost-of-living crisis, calling for greater understanding and practical support for those facing housing insecurity:

“These figures are not just statistics – they represent real families, young people and children facing uncertainty every single day.”

“We urge you to make homelessness and the cost of living a priority… and we stand ready to support any initiatives that seek to bring hope and lasting change.”

For the Caritas Brentwood team, the experience was deeply encouraging. They were inspired by the honesty, empathy and determination shown by the young people, whose reflections revealed both a strong sense of justice and a willingness to act.

The impact of the weekend has continued beyond Youth Gather. Some participants have since attended the BCYS Youth Masses, taken part in the Leadership in Action conference delivered in partnership with Caritas Brentwood and Citizens UK, engaged with Caritas Brentwood resources and are pursuing leadership opportunities within their schools and communities. These steps reflect a growing confidence among young people to take responsibility, advocate for others and live out their faith through service.

This is a reminder of the opportunity we all have to listen to young people, understand the needs they see in their communities, and encourage them to become active agents of change. Their thoughtful reflections and heartfelt appeals offer hope for a future shaped by empathy, responsibility and a commitment to the common good.

“I hope that you will consider these words as you are deciding my future.”

Some images from the weekend