A ‘YOUTH forum’ will be set up in Blackbird Leys in the new year to give a teenagers on the estate “a voice”.

The initiative to allow young people to air their views will launch in January or February with the help of Oxford City Council.

Council officers held an Appreciative Inquiry (AI) earlier this month to find out what young people in the Leys wanted from their community, and the idea of a forum was born.

Antisocial behaviour team leader Daryl Edmunds said: “These are people that engage in activities but don’t engage with us, the police or other key agencies.

“We need to start listening to them and hear what they have to say on how to improve the community, and make a change.”

Five girls aged 13 to 17 took part in the first AI and more sessions involving Oxford Academy students are likely to follow.

One of those who took part said: “We have a lot to say, but do not have a regular place to speak.”

Another said: “People are surprised that good things come out of Blackbird Leys. They have a negative image of it.”

The new forum will be set up by and for young people on the estate with the help of the city council’s Youth Ambition project.

Teenage participants will set the dates and agenda for each meeting, which could cover areas such as careers education, working with older people and promoting activities.

It is hoped by council officers that a youth forum will help reduce antisocial behaviour, following a spate of issues in Windrush and Evenlode Tower over the summer.

Those taking part in the AI were not involved but knew others who were. Mr Edmunds added: “These young people were perfect. They had enthusiasm and drive.

“You will never stop antisocial behaviour but this will reduce it. It has been proved time and time again that engagement is the best way to prevent it.”

Pat Kennedy, council board member for young people, schools and skills, said: “We took a lot away from this first session and now plan to establish a forum for young people to have that continual consultation and dialogue.”

To take part in any future AIs, email saferoxford@oxford.gov.uk or to join the youth forum, email youthambition@oxford.gov.uk