On Friday 16 October, Somerset’s elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) were invited to the Annual Somerset Council Chairmans Award ceremony, at Taunton Rugby Club. The awards celebrate those who go above and beyond for their community.

Elected Somerset Members of Youth Parliament Luca, Blake and Eve, Engagement and Participation Officer Kate receive their awards from Councillor Mike Best.Throughout the event, there were lots of worthy winners. But, at the end of the ceremony Councillor Mike Best called out the MYPs and told everyone about Youth Parliament’s voluntary work representing youth voice across the county. The group received a shield, and the MYP’s each received a certificate and a pin badge to recognise their service to their community.

It was a privilege to be recognised amongst so many people who also work hard across Somerset, giving selflessly to their communities and the people around them.

The MYP’s had no idea that they would also receive an award, believing that they were attending the ceremony to network and promote Youth Parliament. It was a really nice surprise, even if the MYPs were a little flustered by it.

It was a lovely opportunity to feel valued for their commitment and work and they would like to thank Councillor Best for his recognition and support

Eva said: “I’m really pleased to have received the Somerset Council Chair’s Award for Service to the Community. Being able to represent young people across Somerset and help to make sure our voices are heard is something that’s very important to me. I’m proud of the work I’ve been able to do so far and this recognition encourages me to continue supporting young people to make a difference in our community.”

Luca said: “It is amazing that our work is recognised by local people across Somerset. I and the group thank Councillor Best for putting on the event and recognising the differences we are making to support young people.”

Join us, be heard, make a difference

Any young person in Somerset aged 10-25 years can become a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group.

For more information about becoming a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group and to join, visit our Join Us page.

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About this article

October 27, 2026

Paul Mitchell

Blake

Eva

Luca

Member of Youth Parliament