UK Youth Parliament

What is the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP)?

The UKYP aims to give the young people of the UK, between the age of 11 and 18, a voice which will be heard and listened to by local and national government., providers of services for young people and other agencies who have an interest in the views and needs of young people.

The UKYP was formed by Andrew Rowe, an MP, who realised the importance of youth participation in decision making at all levels.

UKYP is a national body of democratically elected young people aged 11 to 18 which has the support of Prime Minister Tony Blair, Leader of the Opposition, David Cameron and the Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Ming Campbell.

The UPKEEP is different to Government in that there are no political parties – so there is no party in power and there is no shadow cabinet. But, just like at Westminster, Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) belong to different select committees and examine important issues.

What are the benefits of being a MYP?

• Meeting other young people from within the Royal Borough and also through regional, national and international networks.
• Confidence building
• Understanding and experience of local and national democratic structures
• Training opportunities
• Access to the activities organised through the RBKC Youth Forum which includes local, regional, national and international projects and conferences
• Experience in being involved in improving local and national services for young people
• Gaining recognition and accreditation that can assist with further education, training or employment.

Who supports the MYP?

The MYP is supported by the Youth Participation Team within the Youth Support and Development Service (YSDS), as well as by other young people who are the members of the RBKC Youth Forum.

What would I be committing to as a MYP?

As an elected MYP you would be expected to link with youth forums and school councils within RBKC so that you can represent the views of young people aged 11 – 18 who are residents of the Royal Borough.

You would be expected to attend the RBKC Youth Forum regularly.

The London Regional Youth Parliament meets one Saturday a month and MYPs are expected to attend.

The UKYP meets once a year during the summer holidays.

Select committees also hold residential meetings from time to time.

What do I need to be a MYP?

• An ability to listen and consult
• An ability to voice opinions and represent the views of others
• An ability to consider options and present these to other young people
• Be currently resident in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
• Be aged between 11 and 17 years

How do I get elected?

There are elections for the MYP for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea every year, around January or February.  You would need to complete an application form. Download and print the UK Youth Parliament application form (File size 86 Kb)

You will need to write a manifesto.  This will help young people decide whether to vote for you.