UK Youth Parliament South West Regional Conference Empowers Young Representatives
Young representatives from across the South West gathered in Taunton for the UK Youth Parliament Regional Conference. The event aimed to develop debating skills, strengthen youth engagement, and shape the government's new national youth strategy.
Organised by Youth Focus South West, the conference took place on Saturday 1st February and brought together elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) to take part in workshops, network with peers, and hear from experienced political figures.
Roz Savage MP spoke to the young delegates, sharing insights on how and why she entered politics, her experiences in Parliament, and her recent Private Members Bill, the Climate and Nature Bill, as well as offering pointers about parliamentary debates. The conference also featured a Q&A session where MYPs posed questions about her role and current campaigns.
Following this, participants took part in a debating session designed to mirror discussions in the House of Commons, where MYPs practised delivering concise and impactful arguments on key issues. The enthusiasm and engagement shown throughout the day reinforced the vital role of young voices in shaping the future of politics.
Event organisers reflected on the importance of providing young representatives with opportunities like this, with Jamie Burrell from the UK Youth Parliament Steering Group and Lucy Jewell, UK Youth Parliament Lead Delivery Partner, commenting:
“We're delighted to be hosting the UKYP South West regional Youth Con event in Taunton. As Members of Youth Parliament prepare for their debate in the House of Commons chamber, they'll have the opportunity to hear first-hand advice from MPs who have been in that same position before, sitting on the green benches for the first time! The day will also see youth representatives from across the region take part in debating workshops, as well as helping to shape the government's new national youth strategy. We're very grateful to Roz Savage MBE, Gideon Amos, Jessica Toale and Richard Foord for their participation and engagement.”
Roz praised the passion and dedication of the young representatives, saying:
“It was great to meet the young people of the UK Youth Parliament at their regional conference in Taunton. We hear of low voting rates and disengagement from democracy among the young, but I can tell you that the people I met were very much engaged, and with much to say about the policies that will shape their future reality. My visit confirmed my belief that the voting age should be lowered to 16, as in the Lib Dem manifesto. It was great to see the participants honing their debating skills, and I trust we will see many of them stepping up to represent their communities in the near future.”
The conference reaffirmed the importance of youth-led political engagement, providing MYPs with the skills and confidence to represent their communities effectively. As they prepare for their upcoming debate in the House of Commons, the young representatives left Taunton inspired and ready to make their voices heard.
ENDS