APRIL marks the beginning of a two-year term of office for three Somerset Members of Youth Parliament.

Eva, Blake and Luca, will soon kickstart their election-winning campaigns. They will replace Emma and James, who served Somerset for two years and were praised for their efforts and dedication to the role.

Somerset Youth Parliament is an open group of voluntary representatives, which includes three elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) who each run a campaign of their choice. Elections are held every two years across schools and colleges.

Eva will be looking at sports in schools and colleges across the county, including any barriers to taking part and what can be done to make activities more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for children and young people.

Blake will focus on money skills and financial literacy education in schools, encouraging greater understanding of bills, budgeting and saving, as well as researching and promoting existing support resources.

Blake will also be talking to businesses, organisations and networks about work experience opportunities for local children and young people.

Luca’s campaign will focus on misinformation, exploring where young people get their news, fact checking, and evaluating information for accuracy. In addition he’ll be working with key figures in communities across the county to make sure the voices of children and young people are heard and actioned.

Emma said: “The role of a Member of Youth Parliament is so important for young people, those who are elected and for those who they represent. It ensures young people have a voice through regional, national and local decision-making.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the role and responsibilities and learnt many skills along the way. I’ll continue working to ensure young people’s voices are heard – an ambition I know our fantastic newly elected Members of Youth Parliament will strive for as they start their new campaigns.”

Lead member for children, families and education at Somerset Council, Cllr Heather Shearer, said: “We thank Emma and James for their hard work and contributions. Both have gone above and beyond during their time in office. “They’ve attended sittings at the House of Commons, sat on Somerset Council recruitment interview panels, performed keynote speeches and attended Children’s Parliament events. All whilst studying for and sitting their GCSEs.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have had two such talented and dedicated young people representing Somerset and wish them all the best in their future paths. As we do our three new Members. I’m so excited about their campaigns and potential and look forward to witnessing what they achieve in the months and years ahead.”

An advisory group supports the Members of Youth Parliament and they run projects alongside their campaigns.

Anyone aged 10 to 25 can join the advisory group at any time, as long as they live, work or go to school in Somerset.

The group members meet regularly and work to improve outcomes for young people and give young people’s voices a platform by influencing decision-makers and services.

They are not party political, but they are able to lobby and challenge decision-makers.