Noah, age 16, calls for a rethink in youth representation

What issue do you most care about?

Youth Representation 

‍

Why is this important to you, and possibly to other young people?

Youth representation is important because without a real voice, or the ability to make an impact in society, how are young people supposed to create the change we need? There are so many issues that need to be addressed, but they will only be fixed when young people are able to make their voices heard. 

‍

What changes would you like to see?

There are already many organisations involved with government that are, in theory, supposed to represent young people. Realistically, a minority of people know about Youth Councillors or the Youth Parliament; they should be the go-to representatives for young people. Raising awareness about these groups and making them speak on behalf of young people in their communities should be a priority for the government. Making meaningful change also requires receptiveness from the government; so either representatives are listened to, or they become too loud to ignore

‍

How can young people be a part of bringing about these changes?

School groups are 9 times out of 10 going to be too small or underpowered to make a difference. You have to look beyond your local community, the best place to begin is likely in your county or town councils- they should have a youth council group or similar organisation that anyone can get involved in.

‍