On February 1st 2013, over 80 young people from Poole flocked to the Civic centre to get their voice heard on issues that affect them and to vote for their Members of Youth Parliament.

The crowd responded enthusiastically to the eight candidates who stood as they all showed passion and determination on topics that they believed in, which include everything from local issues, bullying, mental health and activities for young people. Everyone who stood put forward closely analysed and strong arguments as to what they want to change about Poole and, after a close election, we were chosen as MYP and DMYP. We feel congratulations are due to everyone who ran.

My name is Jess Elms and I am MYP for Poole. I feel very privileged to be given the opportunity to represent Poole and I hope that the next year, through close co-operation of our community, can be productive and worthwhile! I go to Parkstone Grammar school and my hobbies include playing guitar, listening to music and getting into infuriating debates with everyone around me. I can’t wait to get stuck in to the exciting prospects that being MYP will bring.

My name is Francesca Reed and I am the new DMYP for Poole. I am really looking forward to the year ahead and hope to be a successful representative for young people in Poole; making positive differences in our community. I also go to Parkstone Grammar School and I have a passion for the performing arts and in fact anything to do with music. Furthermore, I love a good debate and I too can't wait to get stuck into my role as DYMP and all the experiences that come with it.

Our policies that we would like to implement in the next year are opportunities for young people in Poole, stress and raising awareness for the issues surrounding stress and a survey to find out young people’s ideas.

The opportunities will entail young people in Poole having more of an ability to showcase their talents, whether that be in music, art, drama, sport etc. Also, as we all know, many activities in Poole cost a fortune which prohibits our opportunities so we feel we should expand on this during the year.

Stress will involve raising awareness for stress related conditions, and giving young people practical ways to combat it. The survey will then determine our last policy. We want to send out a survey to as many schools in the area to see what not just we thing is important to change in Poole, but what everyone feels is an issue. This will then go on to form our last policy.

We look forward to an exciting year ahead, and working with everyone in Poole to achieve great things that we can all be proud of!

Jess Elms and Francesca Reed (Poole MYP and Deputy)