We’re now in the 2025 Somerset Youth Parliament Election season, where every young person in Somerset aged 11-18 years, and lives or goes to school or college in the county get the opportunity to stand as a Member of Youth Parliament. Emma, one of our current Members of Youth Parliament gives us the lowdown of her experience running two years ago.
Going through the process of elections was at times nerve wracking and suspenseful. However, nothing quite prepares you for the excitement of creating your campaign, meeting the group, promoting your campaign in school / college or at your clubs and asking people to vote for you.
Then there’s the Election Information and Development Day, where you learn and use new skills to present your thoughts and ideas to your peers – ALL in order to run a successful campaign! The experience has stayed with me since the last Member of Youth Parliament Elections in 2023, and over my term in office (experiences which I’ve been able to apply both at home and in school, helping me improve my skills in everyday life!)
The unique chance to run your own campaign and truly affect change in your local area as a Member of Youth Parliament in somerset, should be widely encouraged and supported.
As a Member of Youth Parliament, I understand that not everyone feels comfortable running for election; but if you don’t wish to run – I strongly urge you to VOTE for your next Members of Youth Parliament whose campaigns you feel strongly about!
The votes of young people are vital to our election, and our support has led me and my fellow Member of Youth Parliament James to strive for improvement on the issues which are the main focuses for our term.
Running, Voting and the Election of members of Youth Parliament, gives young people the power to create real change and make our mark. Get involved, you will not regret it.
Emma
Nominations are open for the next Somerset Members of Youth Parliament!
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Youth Parliament Elections, where young people aged 11-18 years who live, go to school or college in Somerset can self-nominate for the chance to represent their peers, campaign on issues that matter to young people and represent Somerset on the national stage.
For more information about the elections and to self-nominate, visit https://somersetyouthparliament.org.uk/elections/
