Clarendon Youth MP Claire Crawford
Young Learners with Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities (LLDD) at ncn have been learning all about Parliament as part of ‘Speaking Up Youth Parliament’. This initiative is run by the ‘Speaking Up’ charity that works with people with learning disabilities and mental health problems.
‘Speaking Up’ completed a Roadshow for LLDD Learners at ncn during March to explain what Parliament is, what being a Youth MP means and to offer the learners the opportunity to put themselves forward as a candidate for election.
Youth MPs, Thomas Hurst and Claire Crawford, were elected by their peers to represent ncn Hucknall and ncn Clarendon. Part of their role will involve attending Parliament Days, where learners get the opportunity to speak directly to key professionals and decision makers about issues (e.g. transport, bullying, and housing) that affect them and the young people they represent.
‘Speaking Up Youth Parliament’ is holding a special launch event on 22nd April at Trent Vineyard, Nottingham which will be attended by the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Gul Nawaz Khan.
Speaking Up Project Leader, Jenna Hayes, said: “It is really exciting to be launching our Youth Parliament in Nottinghamshire. It ensures young people with disabilities have a voice and are involved in shaping their own lives. Our Youth MPs will have the power to make positive changes for local young people and the chance to become active and valued citizens within their community.”
Posted on 2 April 2009