On Friday 17 November, the UK Youth Parliament debated free school meals as part of their 'Food for Learning' campaign and the City of Southend was proudly represented.
Madi Faulkner-Hatt, who represents Southend-on-Sea as a Member of the UK Youth Parliament (MYP), had a key role in this discussion at the House of Commons. MYPs from all over the country spoke passionately about why it's important for all children to have free school meals.
Watch Madi's speech on YouTube.
More than 200 young Members of Youth Parliament got together at the House of Commons to come up with ideas on how to make sure all young people can get free school meals. They want to help young people with the high cost of living.
Madi felt really lucky to speak in the House of Commons during this yearly event. She said, “I had the honour of speaking in the House of Commons for the UK Youth Parliament annual sitting on Friday.
“I feel really lucky to have had the chance, and it was an amazing debate from everyone who joined in. I'm excited to see what happens next as we continue to empower young people to shape their community's future.”
Aside from her role in the UK Youth Parliament, Madi is also a big supporter of the Southend Youth Council. This council, led by Youth Mayor Thomas Bell and Deputy Youth Mayor Edward Melville, helps young people have their say and make positive changes in Southend.
Locally Madi has also hosted a 'Spill the Tea' event (29 September) with School Council members and decision makers at Southchurch High School to discuss the campaign and shared local research. Madi has also presented findings at the People Scrutiny Committee (31 October).
Cllr Helen Boyd, cabinet member for children's services, education and learning, said: “Ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals is fundamental. The efforts of Madi and the UK Youth Parliament in advocating for universal free school meals align with our commitment to the well-being of children in Southend."
To know more about the 'Food For Learning' campaign, you can visit the British Youth Council website.
If you want to stay updated with what the Southend Youth Council is doing or talk about anything that matters to you in Southend, please send them an email.