Become a Welsh Youth Parliament Member

Applications are open

Do you feel strongly about making sure that young people in Wales have their say?

As one of 60 Welsh Youth Parliament Members you'll give a platform to the voices of young people in Wales on issues that are important to them.

Whether you're thinking about standing, or you're ready to start the process make sure you know all the information you need.

Applications close on 30 September 2024.

Steps to get started


Why become a Member?

From making an impact for young people in Wales, to media engagements, events and training - there's lots of unique opportunities to get involved with.

Be a voice

You can make a difference by raising awareness of the issues facing young
people in Wales at a national level.

Be an influencer

Have an opportunity to influence the way Members of Senedd see and understand
issues facing young people in Wales.

Develop your skills

Develop your leadership and research skills, and boost your confidence in public speaking – skills that will benefit you for life.

Gain knowledge

Develop your knowledge of how politics works and understand how decisions impact the lives of people in Wales.

Unique experiences

Get the chance to debate in the Senedd's debating chamber and take part in media engagements.

Share the journey

Make new friends, and share experiences with a diverse group of young people.

Leaola Roberts-Biggs, Welsh Youth Parliament Member

Still not sure?

Here's what past Welsh Youth Parliament Members had to say about their experience.

 

Where the actual Members of the Senedd sit we got to sit in their seats, where they normally give their speeches we got to give our speeches, and where their voices are heard our voices were heard

Jonathan Powell, Welsh Youth Parliament Member

 

Two incredible years of meetings, progress and most importantly, fun. It has been a truly incredible experience that has provided us all with so much and helped young people across Wales find their voice.

Evan Burgess, Welsh Youth Parliament Member

 

Being part of the Welsh Youth Parliament has really helped my own personal development but also spurred my friends and young people I know to take an interest in politics.

TALULAH THOMAS, Welsh Youth Parliament Member

Ready to apply?

Apply to stand for election: step by step

There are 4 things you need to do when applying to stand for election to the Welsh Youth Parliament.

 


1. Make sure you can stand for election

You’ll need to be at least 11 years old, and no older than 17 on the last day of the election which is the 25 November 2024.

You must also either live, or receive your education in Wales.

 

2. Create your profile

You will need to provide your:

  • full name
  • phone number
  • email address

3. Complete your application

You will need to include:

  • a 200 word biography explaining why you would be a good Welsh Youth Parliament Member
  • three issues that are most important to you, which must be things that the Senedd has  powers over
  • a photo of yourself

 

4. Get a parent or guardian to verify your application

You will need to provide your parent/guardian’s name and email address, for them to verify your application.

They will receive an email with details on how to confirm your application.

Do you need help with your application?

Come and chat to us at one of our free sessions on

Wednesday 18 September – 16.30 

or Tuesday 24 September – 18.00

Email us to book your place.

Ollie Mallin, Welsh Youth Parliament Member

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does it mean to be a Welsh Youth Parliament Member?

As a Welsh Youth Parliament Member you’ll be part of a group of 60 young people raising issues that are important to young people across Wales.

You will:

  • be a voice for young people in Wales at a national level
  • empower Wales’ young people to identify, raise awareness of and debate the issues important to them
  • listen to young people in Wales, represent their views and act on the issues that are important to them
  • help decide the Welsh Youth Parliament’s priority issues
  • raise awareness, and share information on what the Welsh Youth Parliament is doing about the issues they’ve raised
  • help children and young people understand how the Senedd and the Welsh Youth Parliament work, and the impact they have on the lives of people in Wales
  • work with, help and support other Welsh Youth Parliament Members
  • meet key decision makers and talk about your work as part of the Welsh Youth Parliament
  • shape the future of the Welsh Youth Parliament
  • increase and develop the representation of young people in Wales in a new and positive way
  • be given unique opportunities to take part in training, various events, and media engagements during your time as a Welsh Youth Parliament Member
What support will I get?

You’ll be supported by the Senedd to get your career as a Welsh Youth Parliament Member off to a great start!

Staff from the Senedd will be there to help and support you during your time at the Welsh Youth Parliament. They’ll provide support and guidance, and will be a contact point for any help or advice you need about the Welsh Youth Parliament. They’ll also give you regular updates and information about upcoming meetings and events.

The Senedd will cover any costs you incur related to you work with the Welsh Youth Parliament. These costs might include:

  • authorised travel
  • accommodation
  • food
  • attending activities arranged by the Senedd.

You’ll receive training on everything you need to know about the Senedd and the Welsh Youth Parliament.

You’ll also be fully supported with training and guidance on any work you’re part of with the Welsh Youth Parliament, and anything else you need help with along the way.

You’ll also get clear guidance and training on policies which all Welsh Youth Parliament Members will need to follow.

How many meetings will I attend?

There’ll be three meetings of the full Welsh Youth Parliament during your two year term.

At these meetings all 60 Welsh Youth Parliament Members will come together to debate and vote on the issues important to young people in Wales. Where possible these meetings will take place at the Senedd.

Regional meetings and events will also be scheduled.

Some of these meetings and events will take place face to face, others virtually. These meetings will be an opportunity for the Welsh Youth Parliament to discuss and work on the key issues chosen for their two year term within your local area.

Is there a guide to help me complete my candidate statement?

Yes, we've put some handy tips together for you.

Check out the tips for completing your candidate statement.


STAND IN THE WELSH YOUTH PARLIAMENT ELECTION

Just a few more steps and you’ll be on your way to running for the Welsh Youth Parliament election.