By now many people will have read the BBC news article about the proposal to ‘axe UK Youth Parliament’.
The Government is proposing to end the project that champions universal youth voice, a programme that has provided young people with a legitimate democratic platform to influence decision-making, work alongside ministers, and hold leaders to account.
Years after the widespread closure of open access youth services across the UK, with Somerset particularly affected, the Government is now proposing an alternative programme focused on engaging young people whose voices are currently underrepresented. While we have been awaiting clarity and guidance for almost a year, there remains hope that this new programme will provide a legitimate democratic process and continue to offer a strong and influential platform for youth voice.
What does this mean for Somerset Youth Parliament?
In Somerset, we champion social and political education alongside the development of vital life skills, including critical thinking, communication, confidence and leadership. Rooted in the values of democracy, equality and inclusion, our groups provide young people with meaningful opportunities to have their voices heard, influence decisions and make a positive difference in their communities. Ultimately, our goal is to nurture a generation of informed, empowered and engaged citizens, equipped with the skills and confidence to contribute to society in whatever path they choose, whether as teachers, volunteers, parents, carers, artists, entrepreneurs or politicians.
Whilst we will continue to support our current elected Members of Youth Parliament until March 2028, one year beyond the existing UK Youth Parliament programme, we recognise that there may be changes as we adapt to the new national arrangements. However, one thing remains unchanged: Somerset Youth Parliament continues to flourish and is open to all young people. We are committed to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to participate, influence decisions and have their voice heard, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Within Somerset Council, Somerset Youth Parliament sits alongside our Somerset in Care Council, Somerset Leaving Care Council and The Unstoppables, our voice group for children and young people with SEND. We also support a universal Somerset Youth Forum, creating a broad range of opportunities for young people to have their voices heard.
Somerset Youth Parliament is a diverse and continually evolving group of committed young people. Current members include LGBTQ+ young people, young people from Black and Minority Ethnic communities, young people with learning difficulties and disabilities, those from low-income and single-parent households, and young people of faith. The strength of a universal youth voice group is that young people learn with and from one another, bringing different perspectives and experiences together. This helps ensure that all young people’s voices are heard, valued and represented.
At a local level, Somerset Youth Parliament meets online more frequently than in person, increasing accessibility for young people across our large rural county while also minimising travel costs and associated expenses.
Somerset Youth Parliament actively promotes its work and opportunities for involvement through its website, social media channels (where you can find us on Facebook and Instagram) and newsletters. Membership opportunities are highlighted throughout the year. We work closely with schools, colleges and partner organisations to encourage participation, which has resulted in growing interest and increased membership from young people across Somerset.
In conclusion, whilst we continue to await further updates and clarity from the Government and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Somerset Youth Parliament remains very much business as usual. We will continue to champion meaningful youth participation, provide opportunities for young people to influence local and national issues, and ensure that young people’s voices remain at the heart of decision-making in Somerset.
Kate Darlington
