Jamie wins youth election (From Salisbury Journal)

Jamie wins youth election

3:10pm Wednesday 22nd February 2012 in New Forest News By Karen Bate

HE has put together a manifesto and won an election, and now Jamie Edge from Verwood is preparing to fight the corner of Dorset’s young people in the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP).

Jamie, 12, a pupil at Emmanuel Middle School, is hoping to raise awareness of youth clubs, fight for a better range of clubs to incorporate the arts and sciences and increase work opportunities for 16 to 18- year-olds.

Jamie hasn’t always been interested in politics, but became inspired after a series of youth parliament videos were shown in class.

He said: “I knew I wanted to make a difference in my community and thought I could if I became a member.

“I decided what I felt was important in my area and made a manifesto.”

Jamie’s class teacher Carolyn McCay told the Journal that everyone was very proud.

“Jamie is very hard working and very quiet and this is a real achievement. I think this is a great opportunity for him to get involved with the issues surrounding young people and help to make a difference.

“These opportunities empower young people and make them feel that their voices will be heard.”

The UKYP is a national organisation that gives 11 to 18-year-olds an opportunity to get involved in national and local decision-making.

In the past, members have campaigned on a range of issues including cheaper public transport, more ways to give young people a voice and anti-bullying initiatives.

The election process is managed by Dorset County Council’s youth and community service.

Youth worker Shani Bancroft, who helped to organise the elections, said: “The candidates have worked very hard and have taken the process very seriously.

“It’s been wonderful to work with the young people and see their enthusiasm and dedication for their communities, for the youth of Dorset and for voicing what’s important to young people today.”

Cabinet member for children’s services at Dorset County Council Toni Coombs said: “It’s so important for young people to be involved in their community and in local politics.

“Local and national government decisions affect so much in our lives, particularly in the difficult times we’re currently experiencing, and it is vital that young people understand the importance of their voice.”

She added: “I wish the newly elected MYPs a successful and enjoyable year.”