Young people urged to have their say on SYP manifesto
Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) – the democratically elected voice of Scotland’s young people has officially launched their 2026 Manifesto Consultation.
Commencing ahead of the next Scottish Parliament Election in May 2026, the online survey has been set up to consult with young people aged between 12-25 living in Scotland.
The consultation covers young people’s views on five key themes:
- education: to better understand young people’s views on the future of education, youth work, learning and access to further education
- services: to consider young people’s views on the future of the public services, housing and support available to young people in Scotland
- sustainability: to understand views now and in the future concerning biodiversity, climate change, climate justice, nature loss and the circular economy
- social justice: to consider views on the future of equity, accessibility and social mobility within Scotland
- rights: to understand young people’s views on the future of human rights in Scotland both in law and practice
Young people can share their views now via the online consultation survey
Young People's Champion and previous Member of Scottish Youth Parliament, Councillor Chloé Robertson is encouraging young people to take part.
She shares: “By sharing feedback, young people across North Ayrshire and indeed Scotland, have the opportunity to have their say on the proposed recommendations of SYP’s 2026-2031 manifesto.
“This important document informs Scotland’s political parties on what change our young people would like to see in the next Scottish Parliamentary term.
“This is also a brilliant example of youth empowerment and youth participation in action where young people can hold those in power to account and ensure that they uphold Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).”
Article 12 says that children and young people have the human right to express their opinions freely and have their views heard, taken seriously and actioned upon.
Rhyan Gorrie, MSYP for Cunninghame North adds: “Our lives are impacted by the decisions taken by people in power. So, it is vital that we have our say to work together with key decision-makers at Holyrood to build a fairer and equal Scotland for all young people.
“I really hope that young people in North Ayrshire grab this opportunity and get involved.
Quote: By completing the survey, you will do your part to build a nation that actively listens to and values the meaningful participation of all young people. As a collective, the Scottish Youth Parliament has a goal to ensure that all young people grow up in a loved, safe and respected environment where we can realise our full potential. The creation of the SYP’s 2026 Manifesto is the blueprint to do just this. But, in order for us to influence meaningful change, we need as many young people as possible to step up to the challenge and have their say on what issues are most important to them. So please take the time to share your views.
Quote from: Rhyan Gorrie, Member of Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) for Cunninghame North
The results from the consultation survey will be used to gather the views of young people on what policies should be included in the 2026-2031 manifesto.
This is an important document produced every five years with a list of ideas detailing what young people think the Scottish Government and other decision makers need to consider and implement to meet the needs and uphold the rights of Scotland’s young people.
As well as driving national change, another positive of taking part is that young people can earn 150 Reward Points if they are a Young Scot member already. There is also the option to be entered into a prize draw.
Get more information via the SYP 2026 Manifesto guide for young people.
Stay tuned to North Ayrshire Youth Services on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) where we will be sharing more updates on how young people are getting involved in #youthparticipation at a local and national level.
Published: 28 January 2025