Young People's Democracy
The UK Youth Parliament is a national organisation that represent people aged 11 to 18 and aims to deal with the issues that young people face. Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) and their deputies are elected for 1 year, during which time they run campaigns to improve services for young people.
Hertfordshire has 6 MYPs and 6 deputy MYPs, who are elected from voting in schools, colleges, youth clubs and other youth organisations. An MYP term starts on 1st February and ends on the 31st January the following year.
Being involved with UKYP doesn't usually interfere with personal commitments, although it does entail the young person giving up some of their free time. It's a great way to meet new people and ultimately make a difference.
What does the UKYP do?
The UKYP supports MYPs in encouraging the Government, charities, companies and other organisations to take the views of young people seriously. The UKYP produces a document called "The Manifesto" which is created by the MYPs at the UKYP's Annual Sitting and gives a broad description of what action young people would like to be taken by the Government and other agencies, and what young people think about a variety of issues.
In addition to this, MYPs work locally to represent the views of their peer group to their adult councils and regional assembly, and lead campaigns to improve recreation and leisure facilities, transport services, and the supply of fair-trade products in schools. To find out more about the UKYP and the Members of Youth Parliament, read their section in channelmogo.
How can a young person become an MYP?
By standing for election. Youth Connexions Hertfordshire holds annual elections to the UKYP in January each year.
How can a young person get involved if they don't want to be an MYP?
Young people aged between 11 and 18 have the right to vote for their MYP. They don't have to be an MYP to take part in UKYP campaigns and activities. They can join their local Youth Council or many MYPs organise local events for young people to take part in. Local notice boards in youth clubs and schools carry information about what the YP is doing, and there is information on channelmogo about local and national initiatives and events that young people can take part in.