Ipswich business leaders are backing a movement championing young people to ensure their voices are heard in future campaigns for city status.

Ipswich Central has signed up to #IWill, and is among 1,000 other organisations and 700 young #IWill ambassadors and champions from across the UK.

#IWill supporters are all united by a shared belief that all children and young people should be supported and empowered to make a positive difference on the issues that affect their lives, their communities, and broader society.

Ipswich Central said that it is highly important to get young people’s voices included in Ipswich’s Future City status campaign as this is a great example of something that will affect everyone's future - the youth of today should not be left out of the decision-making.

Ipswich Star: Ipswich Central signed up for #IWill movement, Sophie Alexander-Parker, Aleksandra Kasinska and Stephen Skeet, Ipswich Central Ipswich Central signed up for #IWill movement, Sophie Alexander-Parker, Aleksandra Kasinska and Stephen Skeet, Ipswich Central (Image: Ipswich Central)

A number of figures from across the town have come out in support of city status, including Ipswich's Mayor John Cook and vicar Reverend Tom Mumford.

City status could be the catalyst to change the narrative of Ipswich; to unlock the potential in Ipswich and create Suffolk’s first city, and everyone should be involved.

Sophie Alexander-Parker, CEO of Ipswich Central, said: “It is essential that we engage with and listen to young people, our town is their future.

"Their input will play an integral part in shaping the future of our place.

“We believe in building a society that understands and champions the Power of Youth.

Ipswich Star: Sophie Alexander-Parker,Simply C PhotographySophie Alexander-Parker,Simply C Photography (Image: Simply C Photography)

“One where all young people are equipped & enabled to shape & lead change and have their voices listened to - in their own lives & communities. That's why we've signed the #PowerOfYouth Charter.”

Stephen Skeet, the director of business development and impact at Volunteering Matters added: "We are delighted that Ipswich Central have signed the #IWill Power of Youth Charter.

“In doing so they become the first Community Improvement District Organisation in the UK to do so, in the UK's first Town of Youth Social Action.”