Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP'S)

The Scottish Youth Parliament, also known as SYP, is a democratic, politically independent, inclusive charity set up by a group of passionate youth workers as a national voice for young people in Scotland.

Its mission statement says, "Our vision is of a stronger, more inclusive Scotland that empowers young people by truly involving them in the decision making process".

In more detail, the SYP lists its aims as:

• Offering young people in Scotland a collective national youth voice.
• Making a difference in society by increasing young people's participation by promoting a positive image of young people.
• Connecting the processes of policy making and development with young people.
• Being an independent and youth-led organisation free from influence where young people can give their views to policy makers without hindrance, fear or barriers.

Since its inception the SYP has been committed to being an organisation which involves young people across the whole of Scotland and holds its 4 annual meetings in various locations throughout the country. The work of the SYP is centred around involving young people in the decision making process, particularly in consulting with young people and campaigning for these views to be adopted by the relevant decision makers.

The young people's parliament is designed by young people, led by young people and is for the benefit of young people. The SYP is totally youth-led and all of our Trustees are 25 and under. They listen to and recognise the issues that are most important to young people, and ensure that by representing them at a national level their voices are heard by government and formal decision makers.

Within Orkney we have 2 elected Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament, who are in office for 2 consecutive years.

Further Information

If you would like more information about the Scottish Youth Parliament and Orkney's MYSP's please contact:

Cheryl Rafferty

Community Learning and Development Officer.

Education, Leisure and Housing, Orkney Islands Council, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1NY.

Telephone: 01856873535 extension 2432.

Email Cheryl Rafferty.