United Kingdom Youth Parliament Elections 2026
What is the UK Youth Parliament?
The UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) is similar to the adult UK parliament, but it is ran by young people for young people and enables 11-18-year olds to use their energy and passion to change the world for the better and bring around social change.
UKYP aims to give a voice to young people which will be listened to by local, regional and national government, providers of services for young people and other agencies who have an interest in the views of young people. UK MYP is part of the British Youth Council which has an independent national identity and has a rolling programme of activities across the year, including an annual sitting, a sitting in the House of Commons,
Read this Year’s Manifestos
This years candidates have been finalised and their manifestos published below. Be sure to read each one and get ready to vote for this years MYP’s.
Candiate 1
I would like to become a Member of Youth Parliament because I believe that considering we live in a democracy, young people do not have enough say on these issues that shape our lives and futures. Most young people aren’t always interested in politics, as they feel so distant from it, as if it doesn’t effect them, because we do not always have the opportunities to learn about politics and to get involved in it. One of my strengths is my ability to consider multiple perspectives and weight up the other side of the argument, which is essential for a healthy debate and a healthy democracy, as we need to listen to all perspectives and challenge in a respectful way.
My passion for this role comes from issues such as climate change. Many politicians are overlooking this catastrophe, and speaking about it as if cutting down on fossil fuels and bringing in renewable resources is a waste of money. Another thing that concerns me is sexism towards women particularly. Of course, women’s rights have improved a lot over the past century, but there is currently a rise of misogyny particularly amongst teenage boys. I want to work towards creating a culture of respect and equality, where harmful stereotypes are challenged. Class inequality and homelessness are issues that I feel deeply concerned about too.
Too many young people grow up with fewer opportunities because of the circumstances they were born into. Last but not least, one of my top concerns is racial injustice. Young people from minority communities often face discrimination that limits their opportunities and undermines their confidence, and especially with these harmful narratives we see on social media and certain news channels about immigrants, we need to act now to stop this hatred in our society.
Candiate 4
My school did not have a year 6 class, so i went along with older years and when i got to year 4, i contested for the position of Minister of sports and won the election against my opponent, given my love for sports and contribution to school games. A year later at the end of my tenor, I went for a higher role- the office of the school President/Head Boy and won again. Unfortunately, I didn’t last on the seat as I was only head boy for a small duration because of my relocation with my parents to the UK. Upon arrival to the UK, I enrolled into key stage two at School and considering my positive attitude to learning, interaction with fellow pupils, team work with my classmates and respect to teachers, the Head Teacher and the school authority at large, I was encouraged to contest for the post of assistant Head Boy and won the election, despite the little time that I joined the school.
With my leadership experience acquired over the years, I am happy to present myself as a leader and will be ready to join the school parliament at WGSB. Although I am still new to the school, I am very passionate and supportive when it comes to helping my peer out when they require my assistance and getting them to where they would like to be and assess help when the need arises. With these few points of mine, I am very sure I can make a difference as a member of youth parliament if given a chance. Thank You.
Candiate 6
I am applying to join the Wirral Youth Council because I care deeply about fairness, representation, and giving young people a genuine voice in shaping the world around us. Throughout my school life, I have consistently taken on roles that allow me to support others, challenge inequality, and contribute to positive change. Having served as a school councillor three times across three different schools, I have gained a strong understanding of what it means to listen, collaborate, and advocate on behalf of my peers. These experiences have taught me how to communicate clearly, work effectively in groups, and take responsibility for turning ideas into action. I am someone who believes strongly in equity and equality for all. I am antiracist, antisexist, and committed to multicultural values.
These principles guide how I treat people every day: with respect, curiosity, and a willingness to understand perspectives different from my own. I have taken part in events such as the Refugee School of Sanctuary programme, which strengthened my belief in compassion, solidarity, and the importance of creating safe, welcoming communities. I am also engaged with global issues, including the ongoing situation in Palestine, and I believe young people should be informed and empowered to speak about international matters that affect our shared future. My interest in politics and current affairs means I stay aware of both local and international news. I enjoy understanding how decisions are made, who they affect, and how young people can influence those decisions.
This awareness helps me think critically, ask meaningful questions, and contribute thoughtfully to discussions. I work well independently when needed, but I also value teamwork and know how to bring people together to achieve a common goal. Creativity is another important part of who I am. I am a Grade 4 cellist, and music has taught me discipline, patience, and the value of longterm commitment. I also enjoy poetry and creative writing, which help me express ideas clearly and connect with others on an emotional level. These skills have supported me in school council meetings, where I have often been chosen to speak to visitors and represent my school community. Being trusted with this responsibility across all three schools I have attended has strengthened my confidence and communication skills.
One moment that meant a lot to me was being recommended for this role by my English teacher after only two weeks at my current school. It showed me that my character, work ethic, and ability to build meaningful connections are recognised quickly by the people around me. I take pride in treating everyone with respect and forming relationships that last. I want to join the Wirral Youth Council because I believe I can contribute positively, listen openly, and work hard to represent the diverse voices of young people in our community. I am committed, thoughtful, and ready to take on this responsibility.
Candiate 8
I am applying for Youth Parliament because I want to make sure our voices aren’t just heard, but actually acted on. People often tell us to wait our turn because we are the leaders of tomorrow. However, the problems we face, like the climate crisis and the rising cost of living, are happening right now. Our generation cannot afford to wait. As Head of Community and a Scout, I have spent years getting things done instead of just talking about them. Now, I am ready to take that energy to the House of Commons.
Getting Things Done: As Head of Community on my school’s Student Leadership Team, I act as the link between students and our local area. This role has taught me how to listen to diverse ideas and stand up for my classmates. My track record proves I am ready to work: Hard Work and Results: I organised and completed a 15km sponsored walk, raising £210 for my Scout group. This shows the dedication and resilience I will bring to every project as your MYP. Representing Our Community: Leading my Scout group at the Remembrance Day parade was a huge responsibility. It taught me the importance of young people being a visible, respected part of our local history.
Serving as a Lighthouse Keeper: I am proud to be an official Lighthouse Keeper. This role is about being a guardian of our local identity. By guiding visitors, I have learned to speak confidently to people of all ages. It has shown me that if we do not protect our local landmarks now, they will not be there for our future.
My Three Big Goals 1. A ‘Curriculum for Life’ School should prepare us for real life, not just for tests. In Scouts, our motto is "Be Prepared," but school often leaves us unprepared for adulthood. I will campaign for a curriculum that teaches essentials like taxes, mortgages, budgeting, and mental health resilience. 2. Better Spaces for Us Young people know what we need, but our youth clubs and parks are often underfunded. I will fight for more investment in community centres and heritage sites so we have safe, modern places to go that are actually designed for us. 3. A Direct Line to Parliament I will not just speak for you; I will speak with you. I will launch Youth Power Panels and digital feedback loops to hear from you directly.
Whether you are the loudest or the quietest person in class, your concerns regarding transport, the environment, or jobs will be precisely what I bring to the House of Commons. The Choice is Yours I offer the reliability of a Scout, the experience of a student leader, and the passion of a local volunteer. I do not just want to be a voice in a room; I want to be the bridge to the people in power.
Candiate 10
I was seven when I moved to Wirral where I have lived for almost a decade now. I am passionate about politics and representing Wirral because the contrast between North and South is staggering which I think reflects broader economic, social and educational inequalities across the UK as a whole. I’m a firm advocate for reforming the education system to improve political awareness and media literacy, raising mental health services to keep up with a new digital age, and counteracting discrimination against marginalised groups such as women, people of colour, disabled and the LGBTQIA+ communities through support spaces.
Although in Wirral we have a lot of brilliant mental health services, I don’t think a lot of young people are aware of these services, or are too anxious to use them. As someone who is part of the LGBT+ community as well, I’ve also used safe spaces, which I think Wirral needs a lot more of. Neurodivergent or mixed-ethnic people like myself, are also underrepresented in terms of safe spaces and community centres. If more of these places were provided it would make everyone in Wirral feel welcome. Additionally, at my college we have a lot of programmes that provide pathways into Russell Group universities or apprenticeships. I would like to advocate for more of these programmes in schools across the Wirral. I think that promoting education must also be paired alongside addressing the issue of poverty and wealth inequality in Wirral. Many people cannot afford to heat their homes sufficiently in the winter, with 1/7 people suffering from fuel poverty in 2021. I want to see the Wirral tackle these issues of poverty and boost employment rates.
Most of all I'm concerned about how polarised political discourse has become. Although I’m confident in my politics, I think it’s important to listen to those you disagree with without letting your emotions control your arguments. Since I take Politics as an A-Level, I'm used to discussing controversial topics with people who are on the opposite end of the political spectrum from me. I try to be genuine and listen to what they have to say, instead of already thinking of a counterargument before they’ve finished speaking. For instance, I believe there is a lot of fear and misinformation about migration in the UK, and although I disagree with some points of view, I try to understand where that fear comes from instead of invalidating it.
If I had the opportunity to serve as a member of the Youth Parliament representing Wirral, I would use my voice to try to promote these issues in a collaborative rather than divisive way.
Candiate 2
There is a great divide in the UK. And nowhere highlights this most than the Wirral. The chasm that is the M53 to me, can show a cultural divide which has managed to fester itself not only on the Wirral, but also in the country as a whole. I am a Youth/student officer and frequently partake in local politics. This has also taught me what the youth want on the Wirral. And in a generation of partisan dealignment in politics, I feel as though nothing is more important than recognising young people want different things to what the people in power want. It is unfair that the men in suits and ties who run this country fail to acknowledge the needs of one of the largest demographics, the youth.
That is how I would represent the Wirral, as a voice for the youth. I have spoken at youth parliament events on the Wirral before and I understand because of that how important it is to have that voice heard, and thus I aim to make sure that no matter what, the diverse youth of the Wirral have their voices heard.
Candiate 3
I would love to be a member of youth parliament as I currently attend a Group, where I have gained confidence and skills in speaking out and being the voice for those who can't. I attended youth parliament where I was passionate to ensure everyone felt safe and comfortable to speak out and share their opinions. I am passionate about inclusion and ensuring no one feels left out or judged.
Everyone deserves to be who they choose to be and should not be discriminated because of how they look, where they are from or their background. I would use this role to advocate for all young people, especially those who feel they are unable to have a voice. Within this role I would want to ensure all young people in Wirral feel confident to have a voice and for those voices to be heard and actioned.
Candiate 5
I am passionate about creating real change for young people and ensuring their voices are taken seriously. In the future, I hope to work in youth justice, supporting Merseyside Police through roles focused on prevention and rehabilitation, and later stand as a local politician. I am applying to become a Member of Youth Parliament because I believe young people in Wirral and across the UK especially those with SEND deserve strong representation and a voice that leads to action. This academic year, I was elected as one of three student council members at my school and appointed Student Subject Ambassador by staff. In these roles, I gathered students’ views using a Google Form, raised concerns directly with staff, interviewed a candidate for the deputy headteacher role, and helped launch and edit the school newsletter.
These experiences have helped me become confident speaking up, listening carefully, and having mature conversations with adults and decision-makers. I also proposed and helped organise a visit to Merseyside Police Headquarters. This focused on career opportunities, SEND inclusion, and improving trust between young people and the police. During the visit, I interviewed a serving officer who shared her experiences of policing as someone with ADHD. This showed me how important representation and understanding really are in public services. I am also involved with the CAMHS Listen Up Group, where I help represent the voices of children and young people. I have attended care group meetings, interviewed candidates for senior roles, and reviewed policies to suggest changes that could improve young people’s experiences.
This work has strengthened my confidence in speaking up for others and pushing for real change. Alongside this, I completed a Level One Sports Leadership qualification, which developed my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. I have also raised concerns about youth inequality locally with MP Alison McGovern, and with the Ministry of Justice. Building on contact with Alison, I want to advocate for a youth justice system that helps young people before they get into trouble, rather than only responding after they offend, or reoffend. Peer pressure, poverty, lack of education, and unmet neurodiverse needs push many young people into low-level crime and behaviours. With earlier support in schools, better education on drugs and anti-social behaviour, and stronger community opportunities, more young people could be kept out of the justice system and supported to build better futures.
If elected, I will represent young people by listening, speaking honestly, and feeding back what changes are actually being made. I want young people including those with SEND to feel supported, represented, and included in decisions that affect their lives.
Candiate 7
I have seen many friends and family failed by a system that isn’t designed for neurodivergent people. As an autistic person myself I know first-hand how difficult it is when the support you need is not available. I believe that no child or young person should be failed by the system and believe that I have the knowledge skills and abilities to influence better understanding and drive positive change.
I have experience of both mainstream and special schooling and have an understanding of the strategies, support and teaching used in both. At my previous setting I was the school council chair which involved communication with pupils and senior leaders, leadership skills and decision making. Part of this role was suggesting and considering ideas to improve pupil’s experiences, which crosses over with the role of Member of Youth Parliament. I have further had the opportunity to meet with the local MP for West Wirral both in my role as chair and during a trip to parliament, where I was able to challenge him on SEND support and ask valuable questions. I struggled throughout primary school and ended up unable to attend by year 5 due to lack of understanding and support. I believe that the training given to school staff on SEND isn’t enough and needs to be revised to incorporate a better understanding of the lived experience of neurodivergent pupils. Another thing I think is important is support for the families through the process of getting help for their child.
Many families don’t have the resources to fight for what they need, and this can lead to the process taking far longer than necessary resulting in increased needs. In many conversations about neurodivergent young people we are often talked over rather than listened to and this doesn’t help anyone. We are the only people who truly know what its like to be us and we should be included in discussions around what’s best for us. After leaving my primary school, lots of decisions were made without my input by the local authority which would’ve hindered me rather than helped. Luckily my parents fought for me and got what I needed. This support was crucial to getting me to where I am today. I am now able to attend a mainstream college where I can pursue my love of acting. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for every neurodivergent young person and many need high support into adulthood due to them not being given the opportunities to thrive.
There are thousands of young people that have the potential to become contributing members of society but aren’t given what they need to achieve that. I am a confident speaker, passionate about SEND, knowledgeable and experienced. These are qualities I believe are crucial in this role as Youth Parliament Member. I would be honoured to speak for Neurodivergent people in my area and believe I would be an excellent candidate for the role.
Candiate 9
My admirable qualities are that i am hardworking, a good listener, inclusive, thoughtful, considerate and determined. I am also respectful of the opinions of others. I have shown leadership in these following roles of responsibility: I was appointed as a House Captain in my primary school, in which I encouraged everyone and I showed kindness; I am a Patrol Leader in Girl-Guiding, therefore some of the skills which are important are problem-solving, organisation and being a good role model; i organised a fundraiser where my friend and i made lots of keychains for my school's summer fair and we raised the second largest amount of money in the whole event - this showed my commitment and creativity; finally, i was elected as a Charity Rep in my secondary school - we plan and execute charity events and a trait which is important in this role is the ability to invent new ideas. I am very passionate about the climate crisis and animal rights and ultimately, the link between them.
The insatiable greediness of humans is causing animal extinction and increasing the rates of Global Warming - this is driven by Habitat Destruction, Pollution, Over-harvesting, Population Growth and Greenhouse gas emissions. Animals have silent voices but how is it fair that they are affected the most! My aspiration for the future is for everyone to admire a new promising planet with pride and self-accomplishment and not with shame and the regrets that we have utterly destroyed that harmonious, non-human earth. Locally, we can make a change! To conserve and sustain our communities, we need to address the growing concerns such as: rising sea levels and pollution by spreading awareness and taking initiative.
I think Members of Youth Parliament are significant because as a young person, we have great, curious minds and so many things to say but we feel discouraged just because of age and we should have the right to participate in and contribute to National, or even Global discussions without having our messages or ideas overlooked. i promise that i will make our voices heard and together we will make a difference.
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