How to become a member of UK Youth Parliament

The UK Youth Parliament is run by young people, for young people. It’s like the House of Commons but for young people – and it actually feeds into the political process.

On this page we look at how to become a member of Youth Parliament – and how it could help you in your career, whether or not you go into politics.

What is the UK Youth Parliament?

The UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) is a platform that allows young people between the ages of 11 and 18 to have a direct say in the political process. It was established in 1999 so that young people would have a way of representing their views on issues affecting them – as set out in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Today, the UKYP consists of over 300 Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs). Each MYP represents up to 20,700 young people – and the whole Parliament is the democratic voice of the 6+ million 11-18 year olds in the UK.

MYPs engage in debates, campaigns and discussions that can influence national policies. The aim is to ensure young voices are heard on issues that matter to them, like education, mental health, poverty, climate change and much more.

Every two years, elections are held across the UK, and young people vote for their MYPs, who then engage in regional and national discussions. Through initiatives like the "Make Your Mark" ballot, MYPs bring attention to the issues young people care about, ensuring that their concerns reach those in power.

What benefits can young people get by participating?

Taking part in the UK Youth Parliament brings a whole load of benefits – including for your future careers. Here are a few key ones:

1. Develop leadership skills: As an MYP, you’ll have opportunities to lead campaigns, speak at conferences and represent other young people in a range of settings. This builds leadership abilities that are valuable in all aspects of life.
2. Get a deeper understanding of politics: Being involved in the UKYP gives you direct access to politicians and decision-makers, helping you understand how policies are created and how young people can influence change.
3. Shape policies: Your role can have a direct impact on local and national policies. If you’re passionate about a cause, UKYP gives you the platform to work on campaigns and advocate for change.
4. Build your confidence: Speaking in public, attending meetings and engaging in debates can dramatically boost your confidence. It helps develop communication skills that will benefit you throughout your career.
5. Networking opportunities: You’ll meet like-minded individuals, learn from mentors and potentially get to know professionals and politicians.
6. Boost your CV: Being elected as a Member of Youth Parliament is a prestigious role, and it’s a great addition to your CV or personal statement if you're planning to apply to university or start a career.

What careers can being a member of Youth Parliament lead to?

Participating in the UK Youth Parliament can open doors to a wide variety of careers. Here are some possibilities:

1. Politics: Many MYPs go on to pursue careers in politics, using their experience to join political parties, run for local office or even work as advisors or researchers in government roles.
2. Public relations and media: The skills you develop in public speaking, campaigning and media engagement can lead to careers in PR, media, or communications.
3. Social justice: If you're passionate about issues like social justice, human rights or climate change, your experience with the Youth Parliament could lead to roles in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or charity work.
4. Education and youth work: If you enjoy working with other young people, your experience could also lead to a career in youth work, education or community development.
5. Public policy: For those interested in shaping legislation, the UKYP provides a clear pathway into policy research and consultancy roles, where you can help guide decision-making in a variety of sectors.

The network you build and the skills you gain as an MYP will stand you in good stead, no matter which career path you choose to pursue.

How to become a member of Youth Parliament

Standing for Youth Parliament is pretty straightforward. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Check eligibility: To stand for election, you need to be between 11 and 18 years old and live in the UK. You need to live, work, be educated or volunteer in the area you want to represent for 14 or more hours per week.
2. Nominate yourself: Local authorities (councils) are usually responsible for elections. You can usually nominate yourself through your school or youth group, or through your local council. The nomination process is typically open for a set period, so be sure to keep an eye out for announcements in your area. Ask a teacher if you’re not sure where to look.
3. Campaign: If you’re accepted as a candidate, you’ll need to campaign. This is your chance to share your ideas with your peers, telling them why you’re the best person to represent them. You need to come up with a manifesto made up of your policies – like political parties and candidates do in local and national elections. Campaigning can involve speaking in assemblies, using social media, or engaging with young people in your community.
4. Vote: After the campaigning period, young people in your constituency (area) will vote for their MYPs. This is a democratic process, and every vote counts!
5. Be prepared for the role: If you’re elected, you’ll undergo training to understand your duties and how to effectively represent your peers. You’ll also be given support and guidance as you begin your work as an MYP.

Being part of the UK Youth Parliament is an incredible opportunity to make your voice heard and to advocate for positive change on the issues that matter most to you and your generation. If you’re passionate about shaping the future, it could be the perfect platform for you.

Learn more on the UK Youth Parliament website and for in-depth information, check out the rulebook.