Councillor Shanika Mahendran has written to Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP, responsible for Civil Society and Youth, urging the government to step up and prevent the closure of the British Youth Council.

On Thursday 21^st march, the British Youth Council (BYC) announced that it was to permanently close, after more than 75 years.

The BYC helps to empower young people aged 25 and under to influence decisions and supports them in getting involved in their communities and democracy on a local to international level. The closure follows ongoing financial challenges, resulting in insolvency.

In Milton Keynes, the recent BYC ‘Make Your Mark’ ballot saw over 10,000 responses, showing the benefit of the charity, which has supported Members of Youth Parliament, Deputy Members of Youth Parliament, Youth Council and former Youth Cabinet in the city.

Councillor Shanika Mahendran is now urging the Government to intervene and prevent its closure, with a letter to Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP.

Cllr Shanika Mahendran, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Engaging Young People said:

“Young people need to feel empowered to engage with democracy and issues that impact them – their voices are just as important as any other, and on some issues, significantly more insightful than many of the usual voices we hear in politics.”