A RECENT survey carried out with Ross-on-Wye’s youth has revealed what matters to them.

The survey, conducted via Rural Media’s Point of View project gathered the views of 601 young people aged between 11 and 18 who are living and studying in the Ross area, and explored what they love about their town; the challenges they face and what they would like to change.

The online survey explored young people’s experiences, from how they spend their free time to their hopes for the future, considering both unlimited budgets and more realistic possibilities.

Key findings highlighted the importance of the countryside, River Wye, friends and family, parks, sports and local amenities.

Young people also raised concerns about river cleanliness and the need for a safer crossing near John Kyrle High School.

Alongside the survey, Point of View project worked creatively with young people through the Basement Youth Trust, The Courtyard’s Youth Theatre, a creative writing group and

photography projects, helping them share their experiences through film, writing, drama and photography.

Toni Cook from Rural Media said: “It’s been fascinating finding out what young people in Ross love about where they live, but also what they find challenging.

“With evidence and lived experience from 601 young people, we have collected incredible data hearing directly from young people.

“Their love of the countryside, their despair at the bus service and a desire for a ski lift to get up all the hills, have all been carefully reported.

“Despite the many activities available, many young people feel there is nothing to do. There is a disconnect between what’s available and how young people access that information.

“I urge people to read our report to find out how Ross can support its young people.”

The findings provide valuable insight into young people’s priorities and offer an opportunity for local organisations and decision-makers to consider how Ross can better support its younger residents.

The natural environment; countryside, fields, woods, farms, wildlife and views were the single largest and most consistent source of affection with the River Wye being repeatedly singled out by name.

Feeling quiet, calm and safe was a strong and recurring theme in its own right — several respondents explicitly say they feel safe, with low crime.

Parks, sports clubs, cycling, mountain-biking trails, cadets, the youth club and skate park are valued as active things to do, not just green space to look at.

Overall, a strong small-town identity came through with respondents feeling a sense that ‘everyone knows everyone’.

Local amenities mean a great deal: named shops and food spots were spoken about with real affection, alongside cafes and the leisure centre.

Not every response was positive. A minority talked about boredom, or found nothing to love.

One respondent also raised a specific concern alongside their positive comment: “I love that there is a park at the top of the road so it’s easy to get to and there’s a really nice walk up to some fields but the thing I hate is that there are new houses being built in the really pretty fields.”