What is a Youth Mayor?
Lambeth’s Youth Mayor aims to give a voice to young people which will be listened to by local and national government, businesses and young peoples’ service providers. It provides an opportunity for young people to become involved in the democratic process and take real, positive action within their local community. Last year’s Youth Mayor Elections attracted 35 potential candidates and the votes of over 3000 local young people.
What does Lambeth’s Youth Mayor do?
The Youth Mayor acts as spokesperson for young people in Lambeth and provides a link between the young people, media, decision-makers and service-providers. The Youth Mayor is responsible for allocating £25,000 in funding to projects designed for and run by local young people. The Youth Mayor will also work in partnership with other members of Lambeth Youth Council to highlight and campaign on issues which are important to local people.
What is the UK Youth Parliament?
The UK Youth Parliament is a national organisation representing the views and interests of young people from all over the UK. There are over 500 Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) elected by over 250,000 young voters every year.
For more information see the UK Youth Parliament website.
What do UK Youth Parliament members do?
Members of Youth Parliament get together throughout the year to put together a document called The Manifesto which represents young peoples’ views on the issues MYPs think are most important. Across the country MYPs work to give young people a voice, listening to marginalised groups, organising events, making films, meeting MPs, lobbying for change, organising campaigns and appearing in the media. Every year newly elected MYPs attend a training residential to get to know other Members of the new Youth Parliament, and in 2008 members made history by being the first non-governmental body to hold a debate in the House of Lords.
How long are the Youth Mayor and UKYP Member elected for?
Lambeth’s Youth Mayor and UKYP Member will be elected for one year from the end of April 2009.
How much time would I need to dedicate to this role?
If you want to be Lambeth’s Youth Mayor or UKYP Member you would be seen as a figurehead for young people. This would involve attending press opportunities, meetings with decision-makers and time to consult with your peers. It is a very ‘hands-on’ role and devoting some time to the project would be a must.
How do I vote?
On 26 February selected schools in Lambeth will be hosting polling stations to enable their students to vote. For everyone else voting will be online only and voters must be registered by 10 February 2009 for their votes to count.
I want to know more.
For more information on Lambeth’s Youth Mayor and UK Youth Parliament elections, please email Alex Goode (Youth Participation Support Officer) or call 020 7926 2192