Young Voices, Real Change

May 14
1 min read

The High Backs kids celebrate in a playing field in Burnhill. They are holding a litter picking bag and sticks. The background sunset can be seen as they raise their arms in triumph.

Lizzy McDonald, who founded the High Backs, has always said the kids are the heart of this place. This page is just a wee flavour of what they’ve been getting up to.

Taking on the Council

Young people from the youth activism group do a presentation in an indoor space. A PowerPoint presentation is projected onto the wall. The young people hold their notes.

We wanted recycling bins on site. The council said no when Lizzy asked - it would mean taking on a collection commitment.

So the young people put together a presentation, went to the waste management department at South Lanarkshire Council, made their case, and got the yes.

Going to Parliament

Lizzy McDonald and a young person sit in the Scottish Parliament debating chamber. Lizzy gives a thumbs up sign.

That same drive has taken the young people of the High Backs well beyond Burnhill.

In March 2024, some of the young people visited the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh - sitting in the debating chamber and meeting with MSPs.

Can Do Attitude

Two adults and four young people sit around a round table at a professional event. Flags in the background show it is a Can Do Community event.

In February 2025 they were at a Can Do Community event run by South Lanarkshire Council, putting their ideas forward alongside decision makers from across the area.