The UK Youth Parliament gives young people a chance to use their voice in creative ways to bring about social change.

The national programme is funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and we fund and deliver the local programme.

Every other year, young people in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole elect:

• two members of UK Youth Parliament (MYP)
• two deputy members of Youth Parliament (DMYP)

How to stand

To stand in the Youth Parliament you must be between the ages of 11 and 18 and either live or go to school in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole.

What members do

Our members represent our area at a local, regional and national level.

They attend national events throughout the year including the UK Youth Parliament's annual sitting and the annual House of Commons debate.

They will also:

• listen to marginalised groups
• organise events
• meet MPs
• lobby for change
• organise campaigns and appear in the media
• attend Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny meetings as co-opted members

In March 2024, the 2024 to 2026 UK Youth Parliament members were elected by 8,180 local young people. Following their induction they have now outlined their priorities are developing their campaigns. These include:

• Tackling knife crime
• Addressing youth homelessness
• Improving youth mental health in schools
• Young people’s finance