Local MP, Maria Miller, is encouraging all Basingstoke students to vote in the current Hampshire Youth Parliament Election, closing on 6 December.
Maria said: “I would urge all my constituents aged 11-18 to sign up and vote for their fellow Basingstoke students. Taking part in the democratic process and electing people to represent you on the issues you care about is so important.
In Basingstoke we are fortunate to have four fantastic candidates standing for the first time, Lauren and William from Brighton Hill Community School, and Chelsea and Eli from Bishop Challoner Catholic Secondary School. I have met with all the candidates and was so pleased to hear about their positive agendas and determination to improve Basingstoke and Hampshire.
All the candidates need as much support as possible, so it is vitally important that as many 11-18 year olds vote in order to affect change in their local area.”
Chelsea’s campaign: “The three main issues I am focussed on addressing if elected are: firstly, climate change; secondly gender discrimination and its impact in schools; and finally how Hampshire can work together to gradually restart and reintroduce more BAME events following the pandemic.”
Eli's campaign: "My aim is to make sure all young people have a voice, and I will listen to all perspectives in order to do that. I want to empower young people and to put their ideas out there and utilise their voices to make decisions that benefit everyone. I am also passionate about making our environment a better place, starting with schools."
Lauren’s campaign: “My goals for the Hampshire Youth Parliament are: to allow more young peoples' voices to be heard, make Hampshire an even better place to live, help the environment and much more. Making a difference might seem quite vague but it is the best way to describe what I will do for Hampshire and the Parliament. I may not have much experience but I aim to be an amazing representative for our school and our part of Hampshire.”
William’s campaign: “I am passionate about making young people’s voices heard and protecting Hampshire’s environment. Making a difference is a short phrase but means so much. If I were to successfully enter office, my first priority would be to set up ways that young people can raise their voices and see change. I want children to go home and see the difference they have made and encourage more people to speak up about issues in Hampshire!”
Anybody who wants to vote can request a ballot by emailing: [email protected]
