Hull’s Young Mayor and Youth Representatives welcomed children and young people from across the city to the annual Youth Parliament, held at the Guildhall on Thursday 22 October.
The event brought together young people aged 10 and over from local schools, colleges and community organisations, giving them an opportunity to have their voices heard and take part in discussions about issues affecting their city.
It provides the space and opportunity for young people to come together with the Hull young mayor and youth representatives, who provided updates on their priorities.
They explored what young people have told them around the current issues they face.
Some of the key topics of debate were the incoming social media ban for under 16s and young people’s mental health.
Hull’s Young Mayor Eunice also handed the baton to newly elected Young Mayor Isabella.
The Youth Parliament held a debate in the council chambers and took part in workshops to design a bespoke book around the subject of Children’s Rights.
The idea for the book came about from a desire to commemorate 20 years of Youth Parliament. There was also a desire to highlight Children's Rights in the context of Hull City Council’s ambition for Hull to be a child-friendly city.
The meeting of the Youth Parliament helps ensure that young people’s ideas are put forward and acted upon. It provides an excellent opportunity for young people to put their thoughts and opinions forward to direct the future of the city.
While Youth Parliament is an annual event, it’s supported by lots of pop-up parliaments throughout the year in schools and community venues where children and young people live, supported by their trusted adults.
Councillor Linda Tock, the portfolio holder for Children’s Services at Hull City Council, said:
“We want the voices of children and young people in Hull to be heard, as set out in our Community Plan.
“These inspiring young people are part of connecting the council with what matters most to them. As a council, we will continue making sure children and young people have input into decisions that affect them and that their contributions are valued and respected.”
