Being young doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines when it comes to politics. In Wales, there are more ways to get involved than you might think! From shaping policy to having your voice heard, here’s your guide to making a real difference.
The Welsh Youth Parliament
Ever dreamt of being an MP (Member of Parliament)? The Welsh Youth Parliament (WYP) gives young people aged 11-18 a taste of the real deal. Imagine a group of passionate young people debating issues that matter to them, like education, mental health, and the environment. That’s what the WYP is set up to do.
Every two years, elections are held across Wales for the WYP. Young people vote for a representative from their constituency (local area) to be their voice in the Senedd (the Welsh Parliament).
Once elected, WYP Members meet regularly to discuss important issues, debate proposals, and even present their ideas to politicians and decision-makers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills, network with other young people who care about the same things, and make a real impact.
This Welsh Youth Parliament website has all the information you need about the WYP, including how to get involved and how to vote.
Voting
Wales is leading the way when it comes to voting age. In Wales, you can now vote in Senedd elections and local government elections if you’re 16 or 17 years old. This is different from the rest of the UK, where the voting age remains 18.
Voting is your chance to have a say in who makes decisions that affect your life. Whether it’s better public transport, more support for mental health services, or action on climate change, your vote counts!
The Electoral Commission website has all the information about registering to vote and voting in Wales. Find out more about voting.
Lobbying and Campaigning
Lobbying and campaigning are powerful tools young people can use to influence decision-making. Lobbying involves directly contacting politicians and decision-makers to express your views on a particular issue. Campaigning takes it a step further by raising awareness and building public support for a cause you care about.
There’s strength in numbers, so joining a campaigning group that aligns with your interests is a fantastic way to get involved. There’s so many different campaigning groups that work on tackling a range of issues such as climate change, mental health awareness, or educational reform. By joining forces with others who are passionate about the same things as you, you can learn from experienced campaigners, participate in rallies and events, and use your collective voice to advocate for change.
The internet is also a powerful platform for young people to engage with politics. Start a blog or social media account to discuss issues you care about. Share petitions, engage in respectful online discussions, and use your platform to educate others and spark conversations. Remember that sometimes people can be mean behind their screens, so make sure you’re staying safe online, taking regular breaks, and talking to people who can help if you see something that bothers you online.
Volunteering
Volunteering your time for an organisation aligned with your political interests is an impactful way to get involved. This could involve helping with fundraising events, assisting with awareness campaigns, or even offering administrative support. Every little bit counts! It’s also a great way to learn more from others who are working in the field day in and day out and to gain experience trying things that you may not have had the opportunity to do before.
Writing
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-written letter or email. Contact your local Member of the Senedd (MS) or your Member of Parliament (MP) to express your views on specific issues. Clearly outline your concerns and ask questions. Your elected representatives work for you, and hearing from their constituents is crucial for them.
Stay informed
Staying informed about current events and political issues is vital for meaningful participation. Read news articles from reputable sources, listen to political podcasts, and watch informative documentaries. The more you know, the more effectively you can engage in discussions and advocate for change.
Visit the Senedd
While political discussions and activism are important, there’s another way to get involved: visiting the Senedd itself! The Welsh Parliament building is open to the public and offers a fantastic opportunity for everyone to learn about Welsh democracy in a fun and interactive way. You can witness Plenary sessions, explore exhibitions, take a guided tour, and ask any questions you may have about Welsh politics. Find out more about visiting the Senedd.
Your voice matters!
Remember that your voice matters! Don’t wait until you’re 18 to get involved in politics.
Wales offers exciting opportunities for young people to make a real difference. So, get informed, participate in discussions, and start shaping the future of Wales!
Remember:
- Be passionate: Choose issues you genuinely care about; your passion will fuel your involvement.
- Be respectful: Even when you disagree, maintain a respectful tone in discussions and online interactions.
- Be persistent: Change takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged. Keep advocating for what you believe in.