Youth Council

Youth Council

Join the Youth Council and have your say on local issues for young people. It’s open to anyone aged 13-19 who lives in Westminster and you can join at any time of the year.

We meet every two weeks on a Monday night from 5.30pm at Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP.

You will have the opportunity to meet decision-makers and help young people get their voice heard.

There are also other opportunities to participate in decision-making for young people in Westminster through the North East and South Locality Youth Forums.

For more information please contact Simeon Earnshaw on searnshaw@westminster.gov.uk or 020 7641 1048.

Youth MP - 2013

Youth MP 2013 Blerta Berisha

Name: Blerta Berisha

Age: 18

"I hope to bridge the gap between professionals in Westminster and the young people that live in the borough.

"A key aspect of my manifesto as Youth MP is to address the fact that many young people don’t have adequate opportunities to break into their chosen professions. Many aspiring lawyers, bankers, musicians and footballers around Westminster are made to feel their dreams cannot be turned into a reality. I believe that anyone who is able to put together a set of plans in their mind has the potential to make it happen. But, I know this requires a lot of support, especially for children who do not have the contacts or financial means to get to where they want. Which is why I want to set in place a programme where youngsters can be inspired by visiting workplaces – be it law firms or investment banks – where they one day hope to work.

"It would be incredible for children to be mentored by someone in a profession that they aspire to be in. A mentor is not only in a position to give advice and support, but has the ability to change someone's life by symbolising a life that many young people do not have but want and also provide the inspiration they need to get to where they want.

"I want to show young people that if you have vision, belief and a desire for change, there’s enough room for you to make a positive impact on society."

Mahda Omar has been elected as Westminster's 2013 Deputy Youth MP.

Contact

For more information on the Youth Parliament, Youth Council and other ways you can get involved, contact:

Simeon Earnshaw

Tel: 020 7641 1048

Email: searnshaw@westminster.gov.uk