10 ways you can get involved in politics

1. Register to vote

It is now too late to register to vote in the upcoming General Election, but you can still register to vote for future elections. You can register even if you're aged 16-17. To register, go to: www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

2. Join a political party

Political parties are always eager for young people to get involved. Many have youth wings and discounted membership rates for younger members. Even if you don’t want to join a party, there will still be ways you can offer your support or contribute to discussions. 

Click here for a list of political parties represented in the House of Commons.

Click here for a list of all parties registered in the UK.

3. Join a campaign group

Not interested in political parties? You could try campaigning on single issues instead. There are literally thousands of campaign groups, charities and other organisations campaigning on every issue imaginable. And they are always keen for new supporters to help them with their campaigns – letter writing, fundraising, event organisation – anything and everything! Do an internet search for an issue you are a passionate about, find an organisation campaigning on that issue and take a look at their website to find out ways you can get involved. Have a look at UK Youth Parliament's current campaigns or think about kick starting your own.

4. Transform your local area

Tired of adults making all the decisions that affect young people? Think young people should decide what young people need in your area? Then get involved with your local youth service. Your local authority will have lots of ways for you to make a difference and make the changes young people want in your area. Find out what local authority area you live in and have a look at your local website for ways young people can get involved.  

There are millions of pounds available via local authorities to help young people to improve what is going on locally. To find out more information and to apply visit the DirectGov website.

5. Stand for election to be a Member of Youth Parliament

If you are aged 11-18, why not consider standing for election as a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP)? Once elected, MYPs are responsible for representing the views of all young people in their area. MYPs take part in projects, campaigns and events, put the views of young people forward, attend a national sitting and much, much more! Click here for more information on becoming an MYP.

6. Volunteer

Helping out at a care home, raising money for the local youth centre or signing up to be a mentor are all great ways to experience the world of politics. Volunteer opportunities can be for just a day or two, part-time or full-time if you’re looking for something with more commitment. Job roles will vary from place to place. Some will be very exciting, some not quite so exciting! But even the dullest volunteering opportunity will give you an insight into how politics works in the UK. Take a look at www.do-it.org.uk, vinspired.com and www.w4mp.org/html

7. Write to (or email) your councillor, MP, MEP

Is there something you really want changed where you live? Then tell your elected representatives about it! This may seem daunting at first, but really there is nothing much more to it than sending an email. Councillors, MPs and MEPs are increasingly good at using technology and will respond to concerns by email. The WriteToThem website lists all the elected representatives in your area. All you need to do is enter your postcode, select a representative and type your message. Easy!

8. Shadow a government minister or local councillor

Want to know what it’s like to be one of the most powerful people in the country? The Youth of Today is giving 480 young people aged 13 to 19 the chance to spend the day with a Government Minister. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will allow you to go where they go, see what they see and do what they do. Click here for more information.

Or perhaps you are more interested in how politics works in your area? The Youth of Today councillor shadowing programme is giving 600 young people aged 13 to 19 the chance to experience the day-to-day role of a councillor. Young people will work alongside councillors to learn leadership skills, have their say and make a positive difference to their local community. Click here for more information.

9. Debate in online forums

Maybe you just want to debate current affairs and politics with other young people. There are dozens of great online discussion forums, specifically for young people. They are a great way of debating issues you are passionate about, finding out about new issues and meeting like-minded people. Three of the best are www.ukypforums.org.uk, www.thesite.org and www.thestudentroom.co.uk.

10. Start your own political blog

Perhaps you fancy yourself as a political commentator? If you enjoy writing, have strong opinions and are prepared to put the effort in, then starting a political blog may be the thing for you. Some of the top bloggers have started small and ended up with huge followings, including senior politicians! Take a look at Total Politics top 100 blogs and if you feel inspired, start blogging yourself www.blogger.com

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