Youth Parliament

What is the UK Youth Parliament?

The UK Youth Parliament gives young people the chance to have their say on any issue which affects them, and be listened to by local and national government. It doesn't represent any party political view, and is solely issue based.

The UK Youth Parliament is made up of MYPs (Member of Youth Parliament), who have been voted to represent the other young people in their LEA (Local Education Authority). It is a lot more relaxed and fun than most people expect!

What is a MYP?

A MYP stands to represent every young person in their LEA. Any person between the age of 11 and 18 (inclusive) can stand to be elected as an MYP in their LEA. An MYP's work is mainly based on a local issue which young people in that area think needs improving, e.g. transport.

Once a year MYPs from all over the UK meet at an Annual Sitting, which is normally held at a university. Here, MYPs create a UK Youth Parliament manifesto, which is all about the things that the UKYP agrees with and disagrees with.

Being a MYP can also mean that you have the opportunity to shadow MPs and even the Prime Minister, and it also gives you the chance to meet with young people who have the same ideas as you, and to have the power to do something about it.

How do you become a MYP?

I got involved through my school, but you can get involved through youth clubs too. To start with, I had a few meetings to help me understand a bit more about the UK Youth Parliament, and then in December I wrote my manifesto about what I individually wanted to improve in my local area.

The manifestos were published as leaflets, and then I had to make sure that everyone knew who I was and what I stood for, by pinning these posters where young people were likely to see them, and talking to people at schools or youth clubs.

What qualities are important if you want to be a MYP?

It is important that a MYP is prepared to have a view on topical issues. It is equally important, however, that a MYP can listen and respect the views of his/her peer group, and to take this responsibility seriously. But MYPs should also be lively, committed and outgoing, and importantly, have a sense of humour!

You are entitled to vote for the person standing to be a MYP in your LEA, if you are aged between 11 and 18 (inclusive). Elections normally take place around January time, and you can usually vote at your local youth club or school.

I hope that some people are interested in becoming a MYP or in voting in the elections next year, because it is a really good opportunity for every young person to have their say and to be listened to.

For more information visit UK Youth Parliament.

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