Young people representing Hertfordshire in the UK Youth Parliament have visited the Houses of Parliament to learn more about British democracy and how they can influence decisions affecting their communities.

The visit, organised through Victoria Collins, MP for Harpenden and Berkhamsted, gave the county's elected Youth Parliament representatives an opportunity to see national politics in action and raise issues affecting young people across Hertfordshire.

During the visit, which took place this week, the young representatives took part in a question-and-answer session with Ms Collins and her parliamentary assistants.

Discussions covered political representation, the development of government policies and how MPs can champion issues raised by their constituents.

The young politicians also shared their own experiences and priorities, highlighting concerns and ambitions for young people living across the county.

The group enjoyed a guided tour of the historic Palace of Westminster, learning about the history of Parliament and how laws are debated, scrutinised and passed.

They also discovered more about parliamentary procedures, including Early Day Motions, which MPs can use to highlight issues and draw attention to particular campaigns.

A highlight was visiting the public gallery to watch parliamentary proceedings first-hand.

Councillor Penelope Hill, Hertfordshire County Council's Deputy Executive Member for Education, SEND and Inclusion, joined the young people alongside staff from Hertfordshire Services for Young People.

She said: "It was a pleasure to join Hertfordshire's Youth Parliament representatives at the Houses of Parliament and see first-hand their enthusiasm for democracy and public service.

"I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful, insightful and challenging questions the young people asked Victoria Collins MP, which demonstrated their genuine interest in the issues affecting their communities and their commitment to creating positive change.

"The young people represented Hertfordshire exceptionally well and showed a remarkable level of confidence, knowledge and engagement throughout the visit."

She added: "I am proud of the opportunities that Hertfordshire Services for Young People provides to empower young people, develop their leadership skills and support their participation in shaping the future of their communities."

The UK Youth Parliament provides opportunities for young people aged 11 to 18 to represent their peers and campaign on issues affecting their lives.

Hertfordshire has seven elected Members of Youth Parliament, supported by seven deputy members, who work to ensure young people's views are heard by local and national decision-makers.

The county's representatives were elected earlier this year and will serve until March 2027.

The Parliament visit forms part of a wider programme organised by Hertfordshire Services for Young People to develop leadership skills, encourage participation in democracy and give young people greater influence over decisions affecting their communities.

Young people in Hitchin and across North Hertfordshire can also get involved through local youth councils, SEND youth councils, consultations and campaigns.

Further information about opportunities to get involved is available through Hertfordshire Services for Young People⁠.