UK Youth Parliament frequently asked questions

• What's in it for me?
• I'm only young, don't really have a lot of money, what's the cost?
• I would really like to stand for election, or vote, but cannot attend this day - what should I do?
• All sounds a bit boring and adult, where's the fun in that?
• I want to vote, but will struggle to get into the city that day, what can I do?
• It sounds a bit scary or I don't really think I would be any good at it or anything similar?
• Who do I contact for more information?

What's in it for me?

Previous Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) have been around the country, attended regional meetings, met many Members of Parliament (MPs) including the Prime Minister, been local and vocal by pressurising and negotiating with the bus companies to reduce ticket prices. Your opportunities are, essentially, endless.

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I'm only young, don't really have a lot of money, what's the cost?

Essentially there is no cost to you; we will help with a limited amount of photocopying for all candidates for the election. The newly elected MYPs will not have to pay for any travel, residential fees or accommodation.

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I would really like to stand for election, or vote, but cannot attend this day - what should I do?

No young person should be unable to take part in this if they want to, so the best thing would be for you to do is to give the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) support workers a ring and arrangements will be made - either by a post vote, or having a 'stand-in' for you on the day, or maybe even some other solution could be found.

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All sounds a bit boring and adult, where's the fun in that?

The national UKYP is predominantly run by young people and its membership is purely young people - therefore as you can imagine it doesn't have to be heavy and dull like most adult meetings seem to be. The residentials have a work and activity balanced program, and the rules are set by you (and by all accounts, previous years have been incredibly good fun!).

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I want to vote, but will struggle to get into the city that day, what can I do?

All council employed youth workers have responsibilities in supporting this kind of city wide event and where possible should transport willing young people into the city centre for this election.

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It sounds a bit scary or I don't really think I would be any good at it or anything similar?

Support is on offer from the UKYP support team, which can include advice and guidance and there is a 'cabinet' of young people, which meets regularly to support the MYPs in Plymouth in their important work. A support worker is available to accompany any young MYP's to residentials or regional meetings.

At the end of the day if you are aware of the issues that affect your life, or have a passion to represent other young people you will make a good candidate - your confidence will grow with experience!

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Who do I contact for more information?

The Youth Parliament website is a great place to start or please contact the Youth Participation Team.

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