Last weekend, our member of youth parliament (MYP), Erin Belton, attended the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) annual conference. During the conference, MYPs engaged in discussions, presentations and debates about issues affecting young people today.
A primary aim of the event is for MYPs to debate policy motions as part of the process of creating the new UK manifesto. Erin has submitted 2 policy motions. They focus on period poverty, which was in her election manifesto, and young people's safety, a key theme from a recent youth survey.
Acting as UKYP’s vision for the future, the manifesto was wide ranging and broken up into chapters that mirror government departments. This made sure every social issue raised in the manifesto links to the ministerial portfolio, which is used to advocate for the changes MYPs want to see in society.
Erin said:
“Attending the annual conference was such an incredible opportunity to meet fellow MYPs and have interesting debates. It was privilege to represent the youth of Bracknell Forest.”
Erin, 15, was elected as MYP for Bracknell Forest in March by her peers, who are active members of the Bracknell Forest Youth Voice Programme. Youth Voice is facilitated by Bracknell Forest Council’s targeted youth support.
If you are a young person who lives or goes to school in Bracknell Forest and are keen to get the voice of young people represented, email: Youth.Service@bracknell-forest.gov.uk to see how you can get involved.