How do I apply?
Applications are now open for Youth in Government. Click below to complete your application. Please get in touch if you’d like to know more. Email youth@belfast-ymca.org

Apply here

• A diverse group of 30 young people take part

• Participants will meet weekly on a Wednesday night for two hours at Belfast YMCA. Sessions begin on Wednesday 6th November, 2024 and conclude on Wednesday 26th March, 2025. You will meet in-person in our spacious group work room. You will explore and learn about a different topic each week. The diversity of the group will mean that you will hear a variety of different views on issues.

• You will also take a one night residential to Derry / Londonderry where we will meet with Apprentice Boys’ of Derry at their Siege Museum, and later with families affected by Bloody Sunday at the Museum of Free Derry. This trip is during the final weekend of November, 2024.

• You will explore climate change through a session with Friends of the Earth NI.

• You will build skills in political activism.

• You will learn about the UK parliament by taking part in a session with the Westminster Education Service.

• You will visit Leinster House in Dublin to learn about Irish politics.

• You will learn more about Geo politics through a session with Agora.

• You will hold local councillors and MLAs to account through a panel debate.

• You will take part in a parliamentary debate, chaired by The Assembly Education Team in Parliament Buildings, Stormont.

What else do I need to know?

There is a fee of £100 per participant which is payable at the beginning of the project. We have a bursary scheme available. Information is available upon request.