The North Somerset Youth Parliament met in Weston-super-Mare. Picture: NSC

Budding politicans join first meeting of North Somerset Youth Parliament

Paul JonesOctober 19, 20250 Comment0

BUDDING politicians gathered in North Somerset for the first meeting of the area’s youth parliament.

The New Council Chamber, at the Town Hall in Weston-Super-Mare, was the setting for the inaugural gathering of the body, aimed at giving young people a platform to influence decisions on key issues such as education, mental health, transport, housing and more.

Councillors and senior staff from North Somerset Council are backing the initiative, which saw more than 40 students from 12 North Somerset secondary schools, specialist provisions and representatives from groups such as the Young Carers welcomed by councillors Catherine Gibbons, Joe Tristram, Thomas Daws, and Michael Pryke, as well as Director of Children’s Services, Claire Shiels.

MP Dan Aldridge (Lab, Weston-Super-Mare) also sent a welcome video and offered to arrange a visit to parliament.

Cllr Gibbons (Lab, Weston-super-Mare Milton), deputy leader of NSC and cabinet member for children’s services, families and lifelong learning, said: “The Youth Parliament gives young people a real opportunity to be heard and to shape decisions that affect their lives.

“There are nearly 47,000 young people under 19 in North Somerset, but with an ageing population, their voices risk being left out of the decisions that shape their future.

“It’s fantastic to see so many enthusiastic delegates ready to share their ideas, develop their leadership skills, and make a difference in our communities. They will undoubtedly bring fresh ideas and energy. Young people aren’t just leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders today.”

Ms Shiels told members at the meeting, on October 1: “We will aim to make a difference together. We commit to work with you and focus on the things that are important to you.”

During the session, youth parliament members took part in team-building activities and a vote to identify their initial priorities for the year ahead.

They include tackling racism and hateful behaviour, mental health support, and safer streets and communities.

The youth parliament will soon elect two of their members to become Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) representing North Somerset on a national level and making sure young people’s voices are heard across the nation.

For more about the North Somerset Youth Parliament, email shelly.smith@n-somerset.gov.uk.