UK Youth Parliament

UKYP Elections 2012

Young People from across the county are getting the chance to become the younger face of Parliament. Leicestershire County Youth Service are working with schools, the District and Borough Councils, youth groups and voluntary sector groups to look for people in school years 10 and 11 to join the United Kingdom Youth Parliament to represent youth voice in their area.

How will this happen?

Elections will be held in May to choose 7 young people, one from each of the Districts and Boroughs of Leicestershire. Those wanting to stand will have to create a profile showing why they would make a good Member of the Youth Parliament (MYP), which will then be posted online so that other young people can vote for their candidate of choice.

The candidates will have to run their own election campaign through April, and persuade their friends and other young people that they will be a good member of the UK youth parliament and represent other young people on important issues. The closing date for applications is the 30^th March. Voting will open on the Tuesday 8th May at 9am and close on Friday 11^th May at midnight.

CAST YOUR VOTE HERE

Why should you get involved?

This is a great opportunity for young people to be involved in democracy, to consult with and represent other young people and to learn about how to campaign for change and make a difference. There will be a range of opportunities open to the elected MYPs to be able to represent their constituents and campaign on relevant issues. Once elected, the 7 MYPs will attend meetings with other representatives from across the East Midlands, and get the chance to have their say with influential politicians. Some could even get the chance to go to the Annual Sitting (a residential where UKYP members from all over the UK get together). They could also take part in debates in the House of Commons and meet MPs and other politicians.

What current UKYP reps say about being involved.

Karishma – "UKYP has been an incredible experience, meeting MPs, Councillors and other young people who are passionate about improving young people's lives. It's also been a confidence boost. A year ago I wouldn't have ever been able to speak up in a large group of people, which I can now do comfortably."

Poppie- "The best thing about UKYP is meeting lots of other MYPs who are as passionate about hearing the voice of young people as I am. Everyone is so welcoming and I've made some great friends from my time as MYP."

Helana – " UKYP has introduced me to experiences and people and improved my confidence."

Omar – "UKYP has helped develop my abilities in various situations, and put me at the forefront of representing young people – a cause I have been forever passionate about.