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ßÙßÇÂþ»­'s Youth Cabinet shows the power of participation

This UK Parliament Week, our ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet is showcasing the power and impact of youth voice in action.

Supported by ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Voice, the ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet is a group of passionate young people aged 11 to 18 (or up to 25 for those with additional needs, disabilities, or care experience) who work to represent the youth of ßÙßÇÂþ»­, giving young people a voice in their community and making sure they’re heard on important issues.

Over the past few weeks, members of the ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet have been making their impact on a local and national level by running campaigns and teaming up with elected officials like Councillors, Mayors, and MPs.

These inspiring young leaders have:

• Networked with decision-makers by hosting a Lunch and Learn with ßÙßÇÂþ»­ MPs, presenting youth priorities and debating issues like wellbeing, transport, and the environment.
• Shaped local policy at the ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Development Forum, sharing youth perspectives on housing, community spaces, and transport links, sparking interest from planners and advocates.
• Represented ßÙßÇÂþ»­ nationally at the UK Youth Parliament sitting in the House of Commons, delivering powerful speeches on housing, political education, and tackling knife crime.
• Raised awareness during National Youth Work Week and are now gearing up for a UK Parliament Week digital takeover.

This week, the ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet Digital Takeover hits our ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Voice socials for UK Parliament Week, a celebration of how democracy works and how young peoples’ voices can influence decisions. You can follow the takeover at @ourvoicesurrey on Instagram to see real young people making a real difference.

Throughout the week, Cabinet members will share what campaigning looks like, how young people influence decisions, and the opportunities waiting for you, from joining our new Youth Council launching January 2026 to standing as a Member of UK Youth Parliament (MYP).

One of our ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet Members said: “We want young people to see that their voice really matters. Whether it’s housing, transport, or wellbeing, we’re here to make sure youth priorities are heard at every level."

Cammie Evans, Participation Lead for ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet, said: "ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet is proof that when young people are given a platform, they don’t just speak, they lead. This takeover is about inspiring others to join the conversation and shape the future, with a sprinkling of fun and friendship added too."

This summer the Government said 16- and 17-year-olds will be able to vote in the next election. Now’s the time for young people to get informed, get involved, and get confident about shaping the future.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a Member of Youth Parliament, why not come along to our information evening on Wednesday 26th November? Contact youthcabinet@surreycc.gov.uk for more information on how to attend.

Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Be part of the conversation.