The BKYP is a body of 30 young people, aged 11–21, elected by young people in Bradford and Keighley to raise issues and influence decision making on their behalf. Both the young people involved in the youth parliament and the young people they represent are from diverse faiths and backgrounds.

Members of the youth parliament (MYPs) take part in intense training courses to equip them with the skills to confidently take on their new roles as representatives of young people. They begin their term by hosting a youth conference for young people from across the district to decide on which issues they are going to focus on for the coming year. These have included tackling racism and promoting community cohesion.

The MYP's are trained on these issues, and work on finding out the attitudes and opinions of young people in the district. They then communicate these views to adult decision-makers. Towards the end of their term the MYPs host another conference to report back to the young people from the district. Influential adults are invited, discussions take place and adults are asked to make a pledge that will address the issue. MYPs then work with these adults to action the pledge.

Project type

• Conflict resolution

Region

• Keighley
• Bradford