Kirstie's Story

As a member of the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) 18-year-old Kirstie Parsons has enjoyed many life-changing experiences and ensured the views of the next generation are heard.

LSW hosts the regional UK Youth Parliament giving young people, aged 11 to 18, a voice which is heard by local and national government and other agencies providing services for young people.

Kirstie has been an active Member of the Youth Parliament (MYP) for five years, campaigning on issues such as fair trade, accessible leisure facilities and improved transport.

"The UKYP represents the views of young people in the community and offers a new perspective that may not otherwise be heard. The Youth Parliament is changing things at a local and national level and encourages consultation with young people,” said Kirstie.

Having turned 18 Kirstie was keen to continue her involvement with the UKYP and now supports regional MYPs as a voluntary youth worker. 

“Being a member of the Youth Parliament is great and you wouldn’t believe what a difference it has made to my life,” Kirstie added. “I’ve had some fantastic opportunities and it has given me new skills, such as public speaking, and so much confidence.”

With support from LSW Kirstie has been instrumental in organising a winter conference to promote equal opportunities in Somerset secondary schools, having won a £2,600 Big Boost grant.

Thanks to Kirstie regional MYPs also enjoyed a recent trip to London to tour The Houses of Parliament with local MP Jeremy Brown. Kirstie has also represented young people in the South West at a European Youth Conference in association with the Assembly of European Regions in Romania, an experience she describes as both humbling and empowering.

Top of Kirstie’s personal manifesto is challenging negative images of young people and she believes the UKYP is a shining example of positive action by and for young people.

“Members of the Youth Parliament are fantastic ambassadors for the South West. If people came along to our meetings they would see all the great work young people do. All the MYPs put a lot in and get a lot out.”

Kirstie is also one of two regional representatives elected to the Procedures Group that provides a vital link between UKYP Central Office in London and the regions.  

Having studied at Taunton School Kirstie recently began a degree in Education Studies at Exeter University.

Kirstie Parsons