Our Visit to the Houses of Commons: A Day to Remember!
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This year, our incredible Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) from across Hampshire, passionately represented the voices of young people across the region!
On Friday 28th February Hampshire MYPs attended the Houses of Commons for the annual sitting of UK Youth Parliament. More than 200 Members of Youth Parliament from across the county participated in debates in the House of Commons Chamber.
Our MYPs engaged in vital discussions centred around key issues outlined in the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) manifesto. Their elected priority campaigns include:
Voting Rights for 16- and 17-Year-Olds: Championing the right for young people to participate in all elections and referendums.
Period Dignity: Advocating for free, accessible, and high-quality period products in public spaces for all.
UK Youth Parliament also unveiled their Manifesto for 2024-2026, titled "Shaping Our Future, Today Not Tomorrow." Which acts as a reference for how the UKYP want to shape the world and reflects the shared hopes and concerns of an entire generation that is ready to step forward and take on upcoming challenges. You can read more about the manifesto HERE.
Our visit to the Houses of Commons was not just about debates and discussions; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of youth voices in shaping our future. The energy, passion, and dedication displayed by our MYPs were truly inspiring. They have shown that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders of today.
"Scar, Member of Youth Parliament for South East Hampshire, shared her insightful experience of the day. She passionately expressed her thoughts, saying:
‘’There was a lot of build up to the event and so much buzz amongst the MYPs as we got ready to go. It was great to be able to be a part of that energy and excitement to have our voices heard at the heart of our country's democracy. Listening to the Member of Youth Parliament for Sunderland read a letter from our Prime Minister is truly a moment I'll never forget and to hear the passion and support expressed by the various Politicians and speakers who shared their encouragement on the day fell nothing short of inspiring.
The debate itself was a fascinating listen, and it was an honour to witness so many young leaders behave with such decorum, integrity and eloquence exemplified by 10 year old Owen, from Tristan da Cunha, who became the youngest ever person to speak in the Houses of Parliament.
Outside of the chamber, every member of staff, every youth worker and every MYP made the day run smoothly, ensured everyone of all abilities could access every opportunity possible and created a beautiful atmosphere that I can hardly put into words.
I would love to say a massive thankyou to Hampshire County Council, the Department of Culture, Media and Support, the Speakers of the house and all the Staff involved who made this unique opportunity possible.’’
Thank you to all our MYPs for making this visit a memorable and impactful experience. Together, we are shaping our future, today! If you want to catch up on the day you can do HERE.