All-Party Group on youth participation
Case study overview
The All-Party Group on Youth Participation creates an ongoing link between young people and political decision-makers in Northern Ireland. It brings young people together with Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), government representatives and other organisations at Parliament Buildings. Young people help set the agenda, share their experiences and research, and develop recommendations on issues that affect their lives. The Group grew from the Northern Ireland Youth Forum’s Youth Manifesto for Change, which brought together five years of youth-led research and the views of more than 7,000 young people. One of its central recommendations was a political forum where young people and decision-makers could work together to create change.
How it worked
Young people select the subjects they want the Group to explore. These have included mental health, housing and homelessness, and whether politicians listen to young people.
Before each meeting, the Northern Ireland Youth Forum and its partners help participants understand the process, identify what they want to say and decide how they would like to contribute. Young people can present research, share personal experiences, ask questions or join the wider discussion.
Meetings take place at Parliament Buildings and bring young people together with MLAs, government representatives, sector organisations and other decision-makers.
Themes can be explored across several meetings rather than being limited to a single conversation. The Group then produces reports setting out the main issues and recommendations, which are shared with MLAs and Ministers.
Impact
The Group has established an ongoing route for young people to contribute within the Northern Ireland Assembly. They can bring their experiences directly to decision-makers, help set the agenda and respond to questions about the issues being discussed.
Themed meetings have produced reports and recommendations for MLAs and Ministers, creating a written record of young people’s concerns and proposed solutions.
Taking part has also given young people experience of political engagement and helped them become more confident speaking in formal settings. Political representatives gain access to youth-led evidence and direct accounts of how policies affect young people’s lives.
Key strengths
The Group creates direct relationships between young people and decision-makers. Participants explain their experiences themselves rather than relying on adults or organisations to speak for them.
Its agenda comes from youth-led research and continued engagement. Important subjects such as mental health and housing can be explored over time, allowing for more detailed discussion than a one-off event.
Preparation from youth workers helps young people feel ready to enter what can be a daunting political setting. At the same time, participants retain control over how they contribute and can choose whether to present, ask questions or take part in discussions.
The involvement of MLAs from different parties creates a shared political platform. Bringing young people, politicians and relevant organisations together means lived experience, policy responsibilities and specialist knowledge can all inform the conversation.
Key learning
- Involve young people from the beginning and let them shape the agenda.
- Prepare participants carefully. Explain what will happen, who will attend and what they can realistically influence, using accessible language and allowing time for questions.
- Make participation flexible and safe. Let young people choose how much they contribute or step back, plan for practical support such as travel and food, and agree how personal experiences will be protected.
- Close the feedback loop. Record actions and commitments, explain what happens next and be honest about delays or recommendations that cannot be taken forward.
Further Information
Find out more about the All Party Group on Youth Participation and read their published reports.