This year as part of our wider Public Affairs work we would like to introduce clients to UK Parliament week. It is a great chance for youth organisations or those seeking to mobilise young people to get involved and learn about just how Parliament and indeed democracy itself works. From those working with migrant or ethnic minority groups who wish to introduce citizenship or life in the UK through to schools, bands and other uniformed organisations UK Parliament week is a great opportunity to show young people what out elected democracy is all about.

It is also a great way to introduce concepts of good governance, democratic decision making, debate and lots of other life skills. Demonstrating the power of the ballot box, how laws and policy can be changed and the principle of consent and debate are all valuable when organisations are training leaders of the future. We will be working alongside local MPs and MLAs to help local communities embed these principles of the next year, especially as many communities and groups will be exploring and commemorating the Centenary of the Creation of Northern Ireland.

UK Parliament Week will feature in a number of projects we are engaged with, from a heritage project looking at commemoration through to a citizenship programme. So if you would like us to integrate this annual event into an existing or planned project and to explore many issues from citizenship to history then speak to us today. Otherwise, check out the UK Parliament Week website.

WHAT IS UK PARLIAMENT WEEK?

UK Parliament Week is an annual festival that engages people from across the UK with their UK Parliament, explores what it means to them and empowers them to get involved.

IT STARTS WITH YOU!

Last year over 1.2 million people took part in UK Parliament Week, in every nation and region of the UK, and countries all over the world.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re signing up again, by taking part you’ll join a UK-wide conversation about our democracy, people power and making change happen.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

When you sign up, we’ll post you a free kit packed with goodies including an activity booklet, bunting, a ballot box, stickers, and more.

You can pick and choose from the options in the booklet to tailor your UK Parliament Week activity to suit you and your organisation, whatever time you have available and age groups you’re working with.

Plan ahead or just open your kit and go! It’s that simple and flexible!

NEED SOME INSPIRATION?

With over 11,800 activities last year, UK Parliament Week was celebrated in all sorts of ways. Here are a few ideas for all ages to get you started:

  • Q&A sessions, quizzes and lively debates
  • creating petitions and campaigning for change
  • making videos and posting online
  • debating issues and holding votes
  • themed assemblies and school council elections
  • baking, crafting and colouring
  • visits from MPs, Members of the House of Lords, local councillors or mayors, MSs, MLAs and MSPs

If you want to explore further or get started before your kit arrives check out our online resources.

JOIN IN THE CONVERSATION!

We love to see your photos and hear about your planning and activities. Join in the conversation using our hashtag #UKPW,  and follow @YourUKParl for the latest updates.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Please read our FAQs section for additional information.