Flintshire Schools engage in politics at ‘Democracy in Action Day’
Students from secondary schools across Flintshire participated in Democracy in Action Day, an event designed to give young people a platform to voice their opinions on the future of Wales.
Hosted by local Senedd Members Hannah Blythyn and Jack Sargeant, the event brought together students from Mold Alun High School, Ysgol Maes Garmon, Flint High School, Connah’s Quay High School, and St. Richard Gwyn High School at Coleg Cambria in Northop.
The annual event saw students create youth manifestos and engage with the Members of the Senedd on a wide range of issues, from climate change and rubbish collection to mental health provision in schools and school transport.
The students also participated in an online poll, voting on what they believed to be the top priority for young people in Flintshire.
Hannah Blythyn, Member of the Senedd for Delyn, reflected on the importance of youth participation in politics, saying: “When I was growing up, I didn’t feel like politics was for me. So it’s really important for me now to open up politics as much as possible for our young people. It’s vital that they have their say and a chance to shape our country.”
The event included an introduction to the workings of the Senedd by the Senedd Outreach Team, offering students insight into how they can get more involved through initiatives like the Welsh Youth Parliament.
Jack Sargeant, Alyn and Deeside MS, echoed the sentiment, adding: “This event is about showing young people that democracy is something they can engage with directly. I’m excited to take their ideas forward and use them to inform my work.”
In addition to the youth manifestos, Flintshire Youth Services and North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin also contributed to the day’s activities.
Mr Dunbobbin praised the event for allowing him to hear directly from young people about their policing priorities. “Their input is invaluable as we shape our policing strategies for the next four years,” he said.
The Democracy in Action Day, held at Coleg Cambria Business School, provided students with an opportunity to participate in interactive voting sessions, manifesto writing workshops, and a Q&A with local MSs.
The event demonstrated the importance of engaging young people in democratic processes and ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the future of their communities.
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