Somerset's Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) have visited the House of Commons to raise awareness of the issues young people are most concerned about.

Somerset's young people were represented by:

• Jasmine Fowler, MYP for Sedgemoor and Mendip
• Roxanne Wylie, MYP for South Somerset
• Joel Fowler, MYP for Taunton Deane & West Somerset

Taking over the House of Commons Chambers for the day, the Somerset trio joined other MYPs from all over the country, hosted by the Speaker, the Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP.

They debated concerns raised by young people who voted on the British Youth Council's 'Make Your Mark' ballot, which received more votes from young people than both of the UK's last two Prime Ministers.

Nationally, young people's top concerns were the rise in mental health issues among young people, respect, equality and diversity, the environment, cost of living and child poverty, and politics and democracy.

Joel Fowler, MYP for Taunton Deane and West Somerset, said: "Seeing so many passionate young people in the place where MPs sit really filled us with optimism for the future of politics."

 Jasmine Fowler, MYP for Sedgemoor and Mendip, agreed, adding: "The debates were filled with so much passion and commitment so that young people's views are consistently represented. It made me realise how privileged and proud I am to be part of a generation who are so passionate and confident when it comes to speaking up for the problems that we face."

Councillor Tessa Munt, Executive Lead for Children and Families at Somerset County Council, said: "It's about time politics started working for young people, and it's so inspiring to see our own young talent step up to represent not only their peers, but also their county. They take a stand and voice the issues that are important to young people. Their passion, commitment and knowledge are sure to make decision-makers sit up and take notice, and hopefully, shape Government policy for the future."

 To read more about this event and find out more about Make Your Mark and other UKYP national campaigns, visit: http://www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk/