Young people have their say in youth elections

Young people have their say in youth elections

Some of the candidates

Young people from across Wigan Borough will take to the polls to choose the next members of the UK Youth Parliament.

Two successful candidates from a shortlist of 13 will ensure local views are represented on a national level and will take part in the annual sitting in the House of Commons in 2020.

Will Powell from Orrell, and Keegan Moran, from Leigh, are the borough’s current MYPs.

Will, 15, said: “I’ve really enjoyed helping make sure that young people’s voices are being heard.

“Last year, young people told us that mental health was the national issue they were most concerned about, so I spoke in the House of Commons on the need to offer more and better services. 

“We’ve also been working with the council and health services to help improve support services locally.”

Keegan, 16, added;

“Being an MYP is a great experience. The feeling when you are in the House of Commons is totally immense. There are so many like-minded young people there who care about important issues.” 

The young candidates have each made a campaign video explaining why they want to become an MYP.

Key issues they plan to address if elected include climate change, online bullying, gender equality, support for young carers and body image. 

Their videos will be circulated to schools and young people aged 11 to 17 will be able to vote at their school or college.

James Winterbottom, director of children’s services, said:

“We know how important it is to listen to young people in Wigan Borough and the UK Youth Parliament gives young people a chance to have their say at both a regional and national level too. It's fantastic that so many young people have put themselves forward as candidates and I hope all of our high schools and colleges will support the process and give students the chance to experience what it's like to vote in an election"

Will added:

“I hope that lots of young people will vote. Some people think that no-one listens to younger people, but this is our chance to be heard.”

If your school or college wants to take part but hasn’t signed up yet, please email Wigan Council’s targeted youth support services.

You can view the candidates’ video and the winners will be announced on 25th February 2020.