Last chance for young people to stand for election onto Scottish Youth Parliament

Orkney Islands Council is urging young people not to miss their chance to stand up for what they believe in - by standing for election onto the Scottish Youth Parliament before the first day of September is over.

The closing date for young people aged between 14 and 25 to nominate themselves is Friday 1 September at midnight (11:59pm).

The nomination process is straightforward – via the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) website.

Orkney’s current MSYP, Kaydence Drayak, said: “Standing is a wonderful opportunity to try and create change as well as learn valuable skills. I would encourage all young people to consider this opportunity.”

Cheryl Rafferty is Team Manager of OIC’s Youth Services, part of the wider Community Learning Development & Employability Service (CLDE) – she says being an MSYP is a great opportunity for local young people:

“There’s so many transferable skills young people can develop by being involved, from honing your debating and communication skills, to gaining real experience of decision making, negotiations and developing campaigns.

"Our team supports young people through their own campaigns when they stand to be elected, and works with successfully elected MSYPs throughout their term to help them make the most of the opportunities the experience offers.”

To find out more, visit www.syp.org.uk - or go directly to the nominations page here.