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Democracy and young people

Information about democracy and young people in Somerset

Introduction

The following groups or forums provide a space for young people to

  • think for themselves
  • question and challenge themselves and each other
  • develop confidence in expressing their own opinions

It introduces them to how things work in a democratic system. When a group of people vote, they exercise their freedom and right to choose. This is known as democracy.

Somerset UK Youth Parliament

Somerset UK Youth Parliament is supported by Somerset Council’s Youth and Community Service. It is made up of three elected members who represent Somerset at the national UK Youth Parliament. They are elected through schools, colleges and youth clubs across Somerset every 2 years.

They are supported by an advisory group of self-selected young people aged 10 to 25 years from all backgrounds. They bring a range of experiences, opinions and abilities, which makes the group interesting, strong, fun and better able to represent others.

Group members take part in

  • consultations
  • decision making
  • commissioning
  • grant giving
  • campaigning on their chosen manifestos

Jas, a current Somerset MYP said “We should be working alongside decision-makers and services, especially where things affect our lives; consulting, advising, coming up with ideas and solutions – telling them what concerns us and what we need.”

Joel, also a current MYP , said “No one should work with or for children and young people unless our voices are included continually and consistently. ‘Youth Voice’ should be fixed at every level of decision-making in services, to get the best outcomes as possible.”

To find out more, please get in touch with Kate Darlington by:

Visit the Somerset Youth Parliament website for more information.

Make Your Mark

Make Your Mark is a unique opportunity for all young people aged between 11 and 18 years in the UK to have the chance to have a say on the biggest issues facing young people.

Make Your Mark takes place annually supported by

  • Local Authorities
  • schools
  • UK Parliament
  • the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport

The next ballot takes place between 29 January and 8 March 2024.

For more information on how to vote on Make Your Mark please contact Kate Darlington by:

Somerset Youth Parliament Elections

The Somerset Youth Parliament elections take place every two years. Young people aged 11 to 17 – who live and/or go to school or college in Somerset – have an amazing opportunity to influence change. This can be by running for office as a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) or by voting in the elections.

With the support of schools, colleges and the community, Somerset has elected three Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) to each run a campaign of their choice. Elected MYPs also work alongside services and decision-makers to make sure that they reflect young people’s experiences, opinions and priorities. This is a unique chance to represent the voice and interests of local young people across Somerset and at a national level.

For more details about Somerset Youth Parliament elections please contact your school or email YouthParliament@somerset.gov.uk.

Youth Town and Parish Councils

There is a long history of youth councils in Somerset towns and villages, including an award-winning Youth Parish Council in South Petherton. Find out more on the British Youth Council website.

School and College Councils

Most schools and colleges in Somerset have a student council or group involved in helping to run the school. You can contact individual schools to find out more about their councils.

Parliamentary Education Service

This service aims to educate young people and schools about parliament and how our democracy works. The Parliamentary Education Service website has many downloadable curriculum and training resources. You can also find information about how to arrange parliamentary visits.

Citizenship Youth Parliament

The Citizenship Foundation is a charitable trust which encourages young people to take part in society as equal members. It helps them to understand the law, politics and democratic life whilst encouraging inclusion and participation for everyone.

The Foundation

  • provides resources for schools and colleges
  • promotes awareness-raising and social action campaigns

Last reviewed: January 18, 2024 by Helly

Next review due: July 18, 2024

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