Brooke invites young people to contribute to national debate

3.14.38pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 17th Apr 2007

Local MP, Annette Brooke, is encouraging young people in and around Poole to contribute to a national debate about what place family has in society.

Annette, the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Children Young People and Families, is one of several key decision makers waiting to hear young people's views on the family at the online debate site HeadsUp (www.headsup.org.uk).

Families create strong emotions in all of us, and everyone experiences families differently. Yow may have one, two or more parents, you might be an only child, or have three brothers and sisters. Either way, HeadsUp want you to share your experiences and let them know your thoughts on the family.

Annette Brooke said:

"I believe that we need to listen and respond to young people's views within the family, within local communities and at national level. The ability to communicate and participate in decision making is first developed within the family and we all need to respect young people's rights to be involved in decisions which affect them.

"I want to encourage all young people to offer up their views and experiences as their contribution to the debate on modern family life will be invaluable. It is crucial that we continue to hear from young people about what 'family' means to them."

HeadsUp are hosting the debate on the family from Monday 16th April until 4th May 2007. Leading officials have already told HeadsUp what they think - now it's your turn. It's an opportunity for you to set the record straight, get your voice heard and tell the politicians what you really think.

A range of parliamentarians want to hear your views on all aspects of the Family Debate and are taking part online. Your contributions will be put in front of officials at the Department for Education and Skills, Government Ministers, MPs, campaigning organisations and all-party groups in Parliament.

But what's your take on all this? How important are these issues on your agenda? Go to www.headsup.org.uk and let us know what you think.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

It's a Family Affair - What is the place of family in society?

16th April - 4th May 2007

Key questions in the Forum will be:

• What makes up a family? Does every family need a father/mother figure plus 2.4 children to function?

• What elements help keep a family together - children, love, commitment, money?

• What role should parents play in the upbringing of their children, and what role should the state play? What role should parents play in their children's education?

• What causes families to breakdown? Can anything be done to address this breakdown?

www.headsup.org.uk

HeadsUp is a place where young people can debate political issues and current affairs. But it's not just about talking, it's about getting something done.

The debates involve the UK's top decision-makers from parliament and government who want to understand the views and experiences of young Britain.

Every debate is supported by background information, quizzes, online polls and can be used inside or outside of school.

The site is looked after by the independent Hansard Society with sponsorship for the 2006 - 07 academic year from the Department for Constitutional Affairs (DCA) and the House of Commons.