Youth Parliament result is in for Central Beds

The 25 successful young people from across Central Bedfordshire will work with the council, police and other organisations to make sure they listen to the views of children and young people.

Two of the young people will be chosen to represent Central Bedfordshire on the national Youth Parliament, which holds an annual debate in the House of Commons.

Oli Graham, who attends Harlington Upper School, is looking forward to getting stuck into his new role, he said: “Running for Youth Parliament has turned out to be a great decision.

“So far, I’ve found the experience to really boost my confidence, and allow me to meet new people with similar interests and ideas. Being part of an active group that lets us show our opinions has made my life as a young person seem a lot fuller, as it had presented new challenges and opportunities to make a real difference for the youth of today.”

Councillor Mark Versallion, Executive Member for Children’s Services, said: “It’s great that so many of our young people took part in these elections. Those who got elected will now have the chance to work with the council and other organisations and have a real say on the decisions that affect them.”

Pictured (left to right) are Naomi Sherwood, Redborne Upper; Jacob Noah Townson, Vandyke Upper; Steven Dawkins, All Saints Academy; Shannon Flitton, Weatherfield Academy; Jack Lamb, Sandy Upper; Charlotte Ammirato, Manshead Upper; Michael Ita, Redbourne Upper; Charlie Herbert, Manshead Upper; Oliver Graham, Harlington Upper; Izzy Shohet, Stratton Upper; Greg Ogunyanwo, Harlington Upper; Aarti Patel, Harlington Upper; Chloe Gray, All Saints Academy; and Elisha Fowler, Cedars Upper.