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Young people are being given the chance to shape services in the borough where they live, as the nomination process for Hackney Youth Parliament gets underway.

Elections for Hackney Youth Parliament take place in October. Anyone aged 11-19 can stand, as long as they live, work, or go to school in Hackney. Nominations open in July with candidates beginning their campaigns in early September.

The Parliament consults young people on their views and keeps them up-to-date on issues that affect them. They also plan youth and community events, campaign on issues they feel are important and elect representatives to the national UK Youth Parliament, attending regional and national events. Young people can vote according to the area they live or go to school in.

Beth Foster-Ogg, 19, Hackney Youth Parliament Member said: “I’d definitely recommend Youth Parliament to anyone who wants to make a difference. It gave me an extraordinary insight into Hackney as a borough and the way the Council and other services work to improve young people’s lives. It’s a new and exciting experience, and a great chance to meet lots of passionate and engaged young people.”

Former Youth Parliament Members include Ife Grillo, is now vice chair of the British Youth Council. He has also represented England in an international debating competition. Jermain Jackman, winner of The Voice, is also a former member, who believes: “If you want to change things you have to listen, you have to act, you have to take part!”

Young Hackney are hosting a drop-in training day to let people find out what is needed in order to stand as a candidate. This event is taking place at the Young Hackney Forest Road Youth Hub, Monday 25 July, 5pm-7.30pm.