NEWLY-elected members of the Somerset Youth Parliament have met with Somerset Council chairman Cllr Mike Best to discuss how they can become more involved in council decision-making, including speaking at the authority’s meetings.

The youth parliament is a group of voluntary representatives, including three elected members, who each run a campaign of their choice.

Elections are held every two years in schools and colleges and members are supported by an advisory group of volunteers who run projects alongside their campaigns.

A council spokesperson said: “The meeting gave the youth parliament team a chance to learn more about how local government works, how decisions are made, and some of the challenges currently facing local councils.”

New youth parliament members shared their priorities and current campaigns, including mental health and wellbeing, social media, and online safety, access to sport and activities, and ways to strengthen youth participation in local democracy.

The discussion also highlighted barriers young people may experience when engaging with decision‑makers.

Cllr Best outlined ways in which young people could be more involved in council decision‑making, including opportunities to speak at full council meetings, and how to build stronger links with Somerset Council.

He said: “Young people have an important role in our local democracy and it is vital that they feel confident and supported to represent the views of their peers.”

Somerset Youth Parliament engagement and participation officer Kate Darlington said: “The members hope this will be the start of a meaningful relationship where adults and young people can work collaboratively to navigate the challenges and opportunities emerging for the county as we all endeavour to be happy, healthy, and safe in a robust and resilient Somerset.”

Anybody aged 10 to 25 years can join the advisory group as long as they live, work, or go to school in Somerset.