Parliamentarians’ role
Parliamentarians have a unique role to play in helping young people bridge the gap between their passion and commitment to different causes and representation in democratic society.
Your first hand experience means that you have a unique perspective to share with young people. You are able to offer a personal point of view of the workings of our democracy, informed by real-life insight and direct participation. This, along with your personal stories on how and why you got into politics, your achievements, and the specific issues that matter to you can help bring to life the reality of democracy for a young audience.
Toolkit for Parliamentarians
To supplement the amazing youth engagement work already undertaken by so many Parliamentarians this toolkit contains high quality, easy to use activities that have been co-developed with young people and Parliamentarians from different parties, and is non partisan. Parliamentary staff have also shared their insight on what would be useful and practical.
Call to Action
Now is the ideal time for us to teach young people about our democracy and encourage them to become more active citizens. The centenary year of women’s suffrage reminds us of the inspiring stories from the suffrage movement, that we can use to help young people understand how their democratic rights were won and why they are so important.
In addition the inaugural National Democracy Week provides a powerful focal point for action. Parliamentarians have a key role to play in delivering this event, helping to ensure that people across the whole of the United Kingdom have an opportunity to participate this summer.
If you are an MP or Peer you can request a copy of this Toolkit. Please email democraticengagement@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.