STUDENT Rory Birch will represent the nation's youth in monthly meetings with a government minister.

The 20-year-old from Heywood has been given a direct line to the top echelons of political power after being chosen as one of Secretary of State for Communities Hazel Blears's 'youth advisers'.

He will help shape government policy by acting as a voice for young people on key issues , such as turning around deprived communities and helping families ride out the credit crunch.

Each month, Rory will debate various issues with a panel of other youngsters aged between 15 and 20 years old before travelling to Westminster with another youth adviser for talks with the Salford MP.

Rory, a scholarship student who studies sound engineering, attended the first of the meetings yesterday with his colleague, Jackie Macaulay, from south London.

He said: "It's a privilege to be chosen. I definitely think we'll be able to make a difference.

"Both of us and everyone on the panel are from deprived communities so we know what will work and what probably would not.

"Youngsters on estates need good role models rather than looking up to the wrong sort of people and criminals.

The minister also asked how youngsters will be affected by the current economic downturn and how the government can help.

Hazel Blears said: "Rory and Jackie have an opportunity to shape my policies and I have the opportunity, the privilege really, to hear from them directly.

"They have monthly direct access to a government minister, which is something quite new, and they will be able to check what happens as a result of their suggestions, to hold me accountable.

"It was brilliant to meet them again this morning and I'm convinced I've picked the right candidates.

"Rory is passionate, grounded and unassuming.

"Young people, who are enthusiastic, energetic and care about their future, with good ideas, should not be overlooked."